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Thursday, November 12, 2009
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Hyperaldosteronism - primary and secondary

Adrenal gland hormone secretion
Adrenal gland hormone secretion
Endocrine glands
Endocrine glands
Definition

Primary and secondary hyperaldosteronism are conditions in which the adrenal gland releases too much of the hormone aldosterone.


Alternative Names

Conn syndrome


Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Persons with primary hyperaldosteronism have a problem with the adrenal gland that causes it to release too much aldosterone.

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

Primary hyperaldosteronism used to be considered a rare condition, but some experts believe that it may be the cause of high blood pressure in some patients. Most cases of primary hyperaldosteronism are caused by a noncancerous (benign) tumor of the adrenal gland. The condition is common in people ages 30 - 50.

Secondary hyperaldosteronism is generally related to high blood pressure. It is also related to disorders such as:

  • Cirrhosis of the liver
  • Heart failure
  • Nephrotic syndrome


Review Date: 07/25/2009
Reviewed By: Robert Cooper, MD, Endocrinology Specialist and Chief of Medicine, Holyoke Medical Center, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
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