Primary Hyperaldosteronism

Question 1

What is primary hyperaldosteronism

Answer 1

It is the overproduction of aldosterone by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal medulla

Question 2

Primary vs secondary hyperaldosteronism

Answer 2

Primary hyperaldosteronism: a problem of the adrenal glands themselves that causes them to release too much aldosterone.

Secondary hyperaldosteronism: a problem elsewhere in the body causes the adrenal glands to release too much aldosteron

Question 3

Name the two chief causes of primary hyperaldosteronism

Answer 3

Adrenal adenoma (Conn’s syndrome)

Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia

Question 4

What are the hallmark features of primary hyperaldosteronism

Answer 4

Hypertension

Hypokalaemia e.g. muscle weakness

Metabolic alkalosis