Conn's Syndrome

Question 1

What is the clinical name for Conn’s Syndrome?

Answer 1

The clinical name for Conn’s Syndrome is Primary hyperaldosteronism

Question 2

What is Conn’s Syndrome?

Answer 2

Conn’s Syndrome is a condition in which there is a hypersecretion of aldosterone

Question 3

What mechanism controls aldosterone release?

Answer 3

Aldesterone release is controlled by the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS)

Question 4

What are the two causes of Conn’s Syndrome?

Answer 4

Conn’s Syndrome can be caused by

Adrenal tumour - aldosterone producing adenoma

Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia

Question 5

What are the steps in the pathophysiology of Conn’s Syndrome?

Answer 5

The pathophysiology of Conn’s Syndrome is

Hypersecresion of aldoseone

Renin realse decreased - high aldosterone renin ratio

Increased Na and water absorption (high Na and BP)

Increased K excretion (Low plasma K)

Question 6

What are the seven symptoms of Conn’s Syndrome?

Answer 6

The seven symptoms of Conn’s Syndrome are

Headache (hypertension)

Blurred vision (hypertension)

Fatigue(Hypokalemia)

Muscle cramps (Hypokalemia)

Muscle weakness (Hypokalemia)

Numbness (Hypokalemia)

Temporary paralysis (Hypokalemia)

Question 7

What are the three signs of Conn’s Syndrome?

Answer 7

The three signs of Conn’s Syndrome are

Hypertension (secondary)

Hypocalaemia (high urine K)