[Primary aldosteronism]

Abstract

In light of research carried during the past 15 years, it has become obvious that primary aldosteronism occurs much more frequently than previously estimated. This increase in its prevalence reflects a wider screening of patients for primary aldosteronism, especially with the use of the aldosterone to renin ratio. Currently many authors consider the disease as the most frequent recognisable and treatable cause of secondary hypertension. Although, primary aldosteronism is usually associated with hypertension and hypokalemia, many patients are either asymptomatic or manifest only slight symptoms. Early diagnosis and specific treatment reduce the morbidity and mortality related to this potentially life-threatening disorder. In this review, aetiology, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of primary aldosteronism are reviewed with a special emphasis on the most recent literature.