Hyperaldosteronism (Conn’s Syndrome)

Hyperaldosteronism, commonly known as Conn’s syndrome in primary form, occurs when one or both adrenal glands secrete too much aldosterone, the hormone that regulates sodium and potassium balance and blood pressure. The most frequent cause of primary hyperaldosteronism is a benign adrenal adenoma (Conn’s tumor), although bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or rare adrenal carcinomas can also stimulate excess hormone production.

Patients typically present with persistent, often resistant, high blood pressure and may also develop low serum potassium levels (hypokalemia). This combination can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, cramps, palpitations, frequent urination, excessive thirst, and headaches. Over time, untreated hyperaldosteronism increases the risk of left?ventricular hypertrophy, stroke, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease.

Diagnosis steps include checking blood pressure, measuring serum potassium and aldosterone?to?renin ratio, and performing confirmatory tests plus adrenal imaging (CT or MRI) to distinguish a unilateral adenoma from bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. For a unilateral aldosterone?producing adenoma, laparoscopic adrenalectomy is often curative or markedly improves blood?pressure and potassium control. When surgery is not suitable or bilateral disease is present, treatment centers on aldosterone?blocking drugs such as spironolactone or eplerenone, along with low?sodium diet and standard antihypertensive support.