Conn's (Hyperaldosteronism)

Question 1

What is Hyperaldosteronism

Answer 1

It is excessive aldosterone production by the zona glomerulosa and is associated with HTN and low Potassium

Question 2

What is the cause of Conn’s syndrome

Answer 2

Adrenal Adenoma

Question 3

What are the causes of hyperaldosteronism

Answer 3

Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia

Adrenal carcinoma

Question 4

What does the patient present with

Answer 4

HTN
Hypokalemia
Metabolic alkalosis
Nocturia and Polyuria
Mood change and headache
Lapse in concentration

Question 5

What are the investigations for Hyperaldosteronism

Answer 5

FBC/UE/LFT
ESR 
Aldosetrone:Renin ratio 
x-ray and CT (imaging)
Saline suppression test

Question 6

What is the Gold Standard investigation for Hyperladosteronism

Answer 6

Adrenal venous sampling

-No Aldosterone suppression w/saline

Question 7

How do you manage Hyperaldosterone

Answer 7

Adrenal gland = resection

Bilateral adrenal hyperplasia = Spiranolactone (K+ sparing)

Question 8

How does hyperaldosteronism cause HTN and Hypokalemia

Answer 8

Increase aldosterone increases Na channels (Decreases Renin).
This causes more sodium uptake and increased potassium excretion (hypokalemia) and thus Increase A:R ratio.
More sodium = HTN

Question 9

What is the pathology of Conn’s

Answer 9

Raised Aldosterone

• Raised Sodium and water = HTN
• Low Potassium = Hypokalemia

Question 10

What is the first line investigation for Conn’s

Answer 10

AR ratio raised