Conn syndrome

An endocrine disorder characterized by excessive production of aldosterone

Conn syndrome
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Synonyms	Primary hyperaldosteronism
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Hypertension, hypokalemia, muscle weakness, fatigue
Complications	Cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney damage
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Aldosterone-producing adenoma, bilateral adrenal hyperplasia
Risks
Diagnosis	Blood test, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgery, medication
Medication	Spironolactone, eplerenone
Prognosis
Frequency
Deaths	N/A

Conn syndrome, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, is an endocrine disorder characterized by excessive production of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands. This condition leads to hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels), among other symptoms.

Pathophysiology

Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex that helps regulate sodium and potassium levels in the blood. In Conn syndrome, the overproduction of aldosterone leads to increased reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys, resulting in hypertension. The excess aldosterone also causes increased excretion of potassium, leading to hypokalemia.

The most common cause of Conn syndrome is an aldosterone-producing adenoma, a benign tumor of the adrenal gland. Another cause is bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, where both adrenal glands are enlarged and produce excess aldosterone.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Conn syndrome can vary but often include:

• Persistent hypertension
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Numbness
• Increased thirst and urination

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Conn syndrome typically involves:

• Measuring blood levels of aldosterone and renin. A high aldosterone-to-renin ratio suggests primary hyperaldosteronism.
• Confirmatory tests such as saline infusion test or oral sodium loading test.
• Imaging studies like CT scan or MRI to identify adrenal abnormalities.

Treatment

Treatment options for Conn syndrome depend on the underlying cause:

• Surgical removalof an aldosterone-producing adenoma can cure the condition.
• Medicationssuch as spironolactone or eplerenone are used to block the effects of aldosterone in cases of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or when surgery is not feasible.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for individuals with Conn syndrome is generally good. Surgical removal of an adenoma can lead to normalization of blood pressure and potassium levels. Medications can effectively manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Complications

If left untreated, Conn syndrome can lead to serious complications such as:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Stroke
• Kidney damage

Also see

• Adrenal gland disorders
• Hypertension
• Endocrinology
• Hypokalemia