Primary hyperaldosteronism: effect of adrenal vein sampling on surgical outcome

Abstract

Hypothesis: Adrenal vein sampling is superior to computed tomography for subtype differentiation of primary hyperaldosteronism.

Design: Retrospective review.

Setting: University medical center.

Patients: Forty-eight patients (32 men and 16 women) with biochemically confirmed primary hyperaldosteronism.

Main outcome measures: We compared demographic factors, results of biochemical and imaging studies (computed tomography and adrenal vein sampling), therapy, and patient outcomes.

Results: Mean +/- SEM adrenal nodule size was 1.54 +/- 0.2 cm. Adrenal vein sampling was performed in 41 (85%) of 48 patients, and it was successful in 39 (95%) of those 41 patients. Concordance between computed tomography and adrenal vein sampling was observed in 22 (54%) of the 41 patients. Thirty-two patients underwent successful laparoscopic adrenalectomy. There was 1 complication and no deaths. All 32 patients were cured of hypokalemia.

Conclusion: Adrenal vein sampling is superior to image-based techniques for subtype differentiation of primary hyperaldosteronism.