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Primary Aldosteronism (Conn Syndrome)

Secondary hypertension due to excessive aldosterone secretion from the adrenal cortex.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Primary Aldosteronism (Conn Syndrome)?

Primary aldosteronism (Conn syndrome) is a condition presenting with sodium retention, potassium loss, and hypertension due to renin-independent excessive aldosterone production from the adrenal cortex. The most common causes are aldosterone-secreting adenoma (Conn adenoma, 30-40%) and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia (60-65%).

Approximately 5-10% of the hypertensive population has primary aldosteronism, with prevalence approaching 20% in resistant hypertension cases. The risk of cardiovascular and renal damage is higher than in essential hypertension patients with the same blood pressure level.

Diagnosis is made by aldosterone/renin ratio (ARR) screening, confirmation tests (saline infusion, captopril test), adrenal CT, and adrenal venous sampling. Unilateral adrenalectomy may be curative in adenoma, while mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are preferred in hyperplasia.

Symptoms

Resistant hypertension
Hypokalemia and muscle weakness
Muscle cramps and paresthesia
Fatigue
Polyuria and polydipsia
Headache
Metabolic alkalosis
Asymptomatic cases may also occur

Risk Factors

Resistant hypertension
Hypokalemia (spontaneous or with diuretics)
Hypertension at young age
Adrenal incidentaloma
Family history of primary aldosteronism
Family history of early cerebrovascular event
Sleep apnea
Familial hyperaldosteronism types I-IV

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Resistant hypertension (>3 drugs)
  • Coexistence of hypokalemia and hypertension
  • Severe hypertension at young age
  • In presence of adrenal incidentaloma
  • Family history of early cardiovascular event
  • Muscle weakness resistant to hypertension

Treatment Methods

01
Unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy in adrenal adenoma
02
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in bilateral hyperplasia
03
Spironolactone or eplerenone
04
Potassium replacement
05
Hypertension control
06
Dietary sodium restriction
07
Genetic analysis (for familial forms)
08
Cardiovascular risk management

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.