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Hyperaldosteronism - primary and secondary

Definition:

Primary hyperaldosteronism is a syndrome associated with increased secretion of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal gland. This increased secretion is caused by an abnormality within the gland.

In secondary hyperaldosteronism, the increased production of aldosterone is caused by something outside the adrenal gland that mimics the primary condition.

Alternative Names:

Conn's syndrome

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Primary hyperaldosteronism used to be considered a rare condition, but some experts believe that it may be the cause of high blood pressure in 0.5% to 14% of patients. Most cases of primary hyperaldosteronism result from a benign tumor of the adrenal gland, and occur in people between the ages of 30 and 50 years old.

The excess aldosterone secreted in this condition increases sodium reabsorption and potassium loss by the kidneys. The result is an electrolyte imbalance.

Secondary hyperaldosteronism is generally related to hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also related to disorders such as cardiac failure, cirrhosis of the liver, and nephrotic (kidney) syndrome. In these disorders, various mechanisms from the individual disease cause the level of the hormone to be elevated.

Endocrine glands

Adrenal gland hormone secretion

Review Date: 2/27/2006
Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, MD, Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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