Potassium - Urine

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Why is the Test Performed?

This test is usually performed to detect or confirm the presence of conditions that affect body fluids (for example, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea) or disorders of the kidneys or adrenal glands, which are the source of the aldosterone (for more information see the aldosterone test).

The serum (blood) and urine potassium depend on many factors. Aldosterone is a steroid hormone that plays a major role in regulating potassium levels within the body. Aldosterone increases the loss of potassium in the kidneys. Potassium is also affected by acid/base balance because potassium exchanges with hydrogen, to some extent, across cell membranes.

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