Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Endocrinology and metabolism
Primary aldosteronism: making the diagnosis and why it matters
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Adrenal gland disorders
Adrenal gland disorders
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Hypertension
Hypertension
Abstract
It has been recognised that primary aldosteronism is a much more common cause of hypertension than previously thought and this has led to increased interest in this condition. Being a common but potentially reversible cause of cardiovascular morbidity and reduced quality of life, primary aldosteronism is well worth looking for.
Key Points
- Primary aldosteronism is more common than is realised.
- All patients presenting with hypertension and those with difficult to control or treatment-resistant hypertension should be screened for primary aldosteronism.
- Primary aldosteronism has more profound cardiovascular consequences per millimetre of blood pressure than other forms of hypertension.
- Primary aldosteronism is specifically treatable and potentially curable.
- The presence of hypokalaemia is not essential for the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism.
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