Hyperaldosteronism
What is Hyperaldosteronism?
Hyperaldosteronism (hy-per-al-dos-ter-on-ism) is a kidney disorder due to over secretion of the harmone aldosterone by the adrenal gland, leading to decrease in the potassium level. It is more commonly seen in females than males (2.5:1 ratio). It can occur at any age, but most commonly in the age of 30 and 50. It can be detected through computerized tomography (CT) scan, blood tests and radiography.
Hyperaldosteronism is also known as Conn's syndrome.
Hyperaldosteronism has two types : primary due to abnormality within the gland and secondary due abnormality outside the gland.
Causes of Hyperaldosteronism
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Adrenal gland tumour
- Over production of aldosterone by the adrenal gland
- Electrolyte imbalance - increase in the sodium levels and decrease in the pottasium levels
- Glucocorticoid-suppressible aldosteronism - a rare childhood disorder
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