Aldosteronism

A disorder that results from the excessive production of the hormone aldosterone from one or both adrenal glands. Aldosteronism caused by an adrenal tumour is known as Conn’s syndrome. Aldosteronism may also be caused by disorders, such as heart failure or liver damage, that reduce the flow of blood through the kidneys. Reduced blood flow through the kidneys leads to overproduction of renin and angiotensin, which, in turn, leads to excessive aldosterone production. Symptoms are directly related to the actions of aldosterone. Too much sodium is retained in the body, leading to a rise in blood pressure, and excess potassium is lost in the urine. Low potassium causes tiredness and muscle weakness and impairs kidney function, leading to thirst and overproduction of urine. Treatment in all cases includes restriction of dietary salt and use of the diuretic drug spironolactone. If the cause of aldosteronism is an adrenal tumour, this may be surgically removed.