Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Renin Blood Test

Test Overview

Media Gallery(1 picture)

A renin assay blood test is done to find the cause of high blood pressure (hypertension), Opens dialog. Renin is an enzyme, Opens dialog made by special cells in the kidneys, Opens dialog. Renin works with aldosterone (a hormone, Opens dialog made by the adrenal glands, Opens dialog) and several other substances to help balance sodium and potassium, Opens dialog levels in the blood and fluid levels in the body, which affects your blood pressure.

A renin test is often done at the same time as an aldosterone test. In some people, it may be normal to have high blood levels of both renin and aldosterone. If renin levels are low and aldosterone levels are high, a tumor may be present in the adrenal glands.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.