32. Hyperaldosteronism. Hypoaldosteronism Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is Hyperaldosteronism?
Hyperaldosteronism is characterized by excessive levels of aldosterone.
What causes Primary Hyperaldosteronism?
Primary Hyperaldosteronism, also known as Conn’s syndrome, is usually caused by an adrenal adenoma or bilateral adrenal hyperplasia.
What causes Secondary Hyperaldosteronism?
Secondary Hyperaldosteronism is caused by external factors to the adrenal glands, such as conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys.
What are the symptoms of Hyperaldosteronism?
Symptoms include hypertension due to sodium retention, hypokalemia causing muscle weakness, fatigue, cramps, and sometimes paralysis.
How is Hyperaldosteronism diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes blood tests showing elevated aldosterone levels and suppressed renin activity, imaging (CT or MRI), and confirmatory tests like saline infusion.
What is the treatment for Primary Hyperaldosteronism?
Treatment involves surgical removal of the adrenal adenoma in cases of Conn’s syndrome.
What is the medical treatment for Secondary Hyperaldosteronism?
Medical treatment includes the use of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (spironolactone) to block the effects of aldosterone.
What is Hypoaldosteronism?
Hypoaldosteronism is characterized by insufficient production of aldosterone.
What causes Primary Hypoaldosteronism?
Primary Hypoaldosteronism is caused by destruction or dysfunction of the adrenal cortex, such as in Addison’s Disease.
What causes Secondary Hypoaldosteronism?
Secondary Hypoaldosteronism can result from defects in the renin-angiotensin system due to kidney diseases, certain medications, or diabetic nephropathy.
What are the symptoms of Hypoaldosteronism?
Symptoms include hypotension, hyperkalemia causing cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, fatigue, and hyponatremia leading to confusion and seizures.
How is Hypoaldosteronism diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes blood tests showing low aldosterone levels, hyperkalemia, and hyponatremia, as well as an ACTH stimulation test.
What is the treatment for Hypoaldosteronism?
Treatment includes mineralocorticoid replacement with fludrocortisone and management of underlying causes.
