In primary hyperaldosteronism, a plasma aldosterone to plasma renin ratio diagnostic threshold is greater than what value?

• A. Greater than 30
• B. Greater than 50
• C. Greater than 10
• D. Greater than 100

Answer: (B)

The test is about using the aldosterone-to-renin ratio to screen for primary hyperaldosteronism. In this condition, aldosterone secretion is inappropriately high while renin is suppressed, so the ratio becomes markedly elevated. A threshold of greater than 50 is commonly used to indicate a positive screen and to prompt confirmatory testing. This cutoff helps distinguish autonomous aldosterone production from normal or secondary causes where renin is not suppressed. While methods and units can vary, and follow-up confirmatory tests are needed, ARR > 50 is the standard benchmark referenced here.