Primary hyperaldo—steronism (Conn syndrome)

Primary hyperaldosteronism is a hormonal disorder in which there is excessive production of the hormone aldosterone in the adrenal glands. This hormone regulates sodium, potassium and blood pressure levels. If the body produces too much of it, there is an increase in blood pressure and a loss of potassium.

Typical symptoms

High blood pressure — often in younger patients, harder to treat, despite multiple medications
Low potassium levels (hypokalaemia) — can cause fatigue, muscle weakness, cramps, arrhythmias
Increased thirst and frequent urination
In some patients without symptoms — detected by chance during examinations due to hypertension

Diagnostics

The examination takes place in several steps:

Blood sampling for aldosterone and renin — key screening test (aldosterone/renin ratio is calculated)
Before taking it is necessary follow specific instructions -- such as not taking certain medications, having a normal salt intake, etc.
Supplementary tests:
- Measurement of potassium levels
- Stress tests (e.g. infusion saline test, fludrocortisone test) — to confirm the diagnosis
Imaging examination (CT of the adrenal glands) — to detect focal changes (adenoma)
Selective sampling from adrenal veins — a specialized examination to distinguish whether it is a unilateral or bilateral type

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Causes and forms

Primary hyperaldosteronism can take several forms:

Adrenal adenoma (aldosteronoma) — most often unilateral finding, suitable for surgical removal
Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia — overproduction from both glands, treated with medication
More rare genetic forms (familial hyperaldosteronism)

Treatment

Surgical removal unilateral adenoma — often leads to a cure or a significant improvement in blood pressure
Treatment with medication (e.g. spironolactone, eplerenone) — for bilateral hyperplasia or inappropriateness of surgery
Lifestyle adjustment — salt restriction, diet, blood pressure and potassium monitoring

Long-term monitoring

Patients should be monitored regularly for possible changes in blood pressure, kidney function and potassium levels. In the case of surgical treatment, it is necessary to check the effectiveness and adjust the medication.

Our team provides patients with clear information about test preparation as well as treatment options and tailored recommendations.

Primary hyperaldo—steronism (Conn syndrome)

Typical symptoms

Diagnostics

Not sure how to proceed?

Causes and forms

Treatment

Long-term monitoring

Other diseases

Very rare adrenal tumors

Adrenal tumors in children

Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas