Ventricular fibrillation: an extreme presentation of primary hyperaldosteronism

Abstract

Patients with primary aldosteronism often present with hypokalemia and hypertension. Primary aldosteronism presenting as sudden death due to ventricular fibrillation is described in an otherwise healthy 37-year-old woman. After successful direct current cardioversion, serum potassium was 1.4 mmol/L. Investigations revealed a suppressed renin level, elevated serum aldosterone and a right adrenal nodule found on imaging. Ventricular fibrillation has not previously been described as a presention of a biochemically and surgically proven aldosterone-producing adenoma. This case highlights the importance of early detection and proper diagnosis of secondary hypertension before serious sequelae occur.