Hyperaldosteronism

Background

Hyperaldosteronism refers to a condition of excess aldosterone secretion, typically leading to sodium retention, potassium excretion, and metabolic alkalosis. It is categorized into:

• Primary hyperaldosteronism (Conn syndrome) – autonomous overproduction of aldosterone, most commonly from an adrenal adenoma or bilateral adrenal hyperplasia.
• Secondary hyperaldosteronism – due to increased renin from conditions like renal artery stenosis, heart failure, or cirrhosis.

Primary hyperaldosteronism is an important and potentially reversible cause of secondary hypertension, accounting for 5–10% of hypertensive cases and up to 20% of treatment-resistant hypertension. It is often underdiagnosed in emergency settings.