Also known as Conn's syndrome, this disorder occurs when the body overproduces aldosterone, a hormone that controls sodium and potassium levels in the blood. Its overproduction leads to retention of salt and loss of potassium, which leads to hypertension. It is due to adenoma, a typically benign tumor in which the cells overproduce aldosterone.
Primary hyperaldosteronism accounts for less than one percent of all cases of hypertension. It is more common in females than males (2.5:1 ratio). It can occur at any age, but most commonly when a person is in their 30s and 40s. The majority of cases are sporadic, but one hereditary cause has been identified: glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism (GRA). GRA is caused by a rare gene where aldosterone production is controlled by the pituitary gland rather than by the kidney. It can also be caused by adrenal cancers or an enlarged organ due to increased cell production (hyperplasia). Other causes of hyperaldosteronism include any condition that decreases blood flow to the kidney, including dehydration, kidney artery constriction, cardiac failure, shock, liver disease, pregnancy and renin-secreting kidney tumors.
Note: There are currently no drugs listed for "Hyperaldosteronism".
