Conn's syndrome

Question 1

What is Conn’s syndrome?

Answer 1

Hyperaldosteronism, the excess secretion of aldosterone.

Caused by adenoma or bilateral hyperplasia

Question 2

What symptoms can occur in Conn’s syndrome?

Answer 2

Hypertension

Hypokalemia- weakness, fatigue, heart palpitations, muscle cramps/spasms

Question 3

Testing of Conn’s syndrome?

Answer 3

1st- plasma aldosterone to renin ratio is done, if >20 then it is primary hyperaldosteronism, e.g. Conn’s syndrome.
If <20 it is secondary hyperaldosteronism/ essential hypertension.

Confirm by doing a urine aldosterone test and then a CT to show where the source of the excess aldosterone is so that it can be surgically removed.

Question 4

Treatment of Conn’s syndrome?

Answer 4

Surgical removal of adenoma or the hyperplased adrenal gland.