It is important to consult with a physician for the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions. Problems such as low blood potassium and hypertension, or high blood pressure, if they have a single underlying cause, may be from Conn's syndrome. Conn's syndrome is also known as primary or secondary hyperaldosteronism.
Physiology and Types
The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys and produce a number of hormones. One of the hormones is the steroid hormone aldosterone. Aldosterone signals the kidneys to conserve sodium and water, and secrete potassium and acid from the blood into the urine. Hyperaldosteronism means a high blood level of aldosterone. Primary hyperaldosteronism is caused by an adrenal problem in which the glands secrete too much aldosterone. Secondary hyperaldosteronism is caused by excessive hormones that stimulate the adrenal glands to make aldosterone, such as renin.
Causes
Primary hyperaldosteronism is caused by overgrowth of the adrenal gland tissue. Generalized overgrowth in both glands of unknown cause is called bilateral idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia. Focal overgrowths, as in a benign tumor, is called a functional adrenal adenoma. Rarely, excess aldosterone can be caused by cancer. Secondary hyperaldosteronism is usually caused by kidney problems, such as a tumor, that releases the hormone renin, which stimulates aldosterone release.
Symptoms and Signs
Conn's syndrome causes high blood pressure, low blood potassium and decreased acidity of the blood. There may be no symptoms. High blood pressure can go unnoticed or cause headaches, vision changes, chest pain, shortness of breath and kidney problems. Low potassium has a strong effect on muscles and nerves. It can cause muscle weakness, cramping, fatigue, constipation or abnormal heart rhythms.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis of Conn's syndrome with hypertension and low blood potassium may be made during a routine visit to a physician. Blood pressure checks can reveal hypertension, which are of unknown cause in the vast majority of cases. A small number are "secondary hypertension" which means they have a known, diagnosable underlying cause. Blood work that reveals low potassium, along with the hypertension is an important clue. Tests for renin, aldosterone, or imaging of the adrenal glands can be performed as well. The treatment involves removing excessive tissue surgically, or giving the aldosterone antagonizing drug spironolactone.
References
- "Physiology"; Linda S.Costanzo; 4th Ed 2008
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony S. Fauci et al.; 17th Ed 2008
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