Primary Aldosteronism: Cardiovascular Outcomes Pre- and Post-treatment

Abstract

Purpose of review: Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a common form of hypertension characterized by autonomous aldosterone secretion from one or both adrenal glands. The purpose of this review is to synthesize recent research findings regarding cardiovascular disease risk in PA both pre- and post-targeted therapy.

Recent findings: Previously considered a rare disease, recent prevalence studies demonstrate that PA is actually a very common, yet vastly under-diagnosed, etiology of hypertension. Prior to targeted therapy, PA is associated with substantially higher rates of cardiovascular disease compared with essential hypertension. Surgical adrenalectomy is highly effective in curing or improving hypertension as well as mitigating cardiovascular disease risk in patients with unilateral PA. For the remainder of PA patients, MR antagonists are recommended; however, several recent studies have brought into question their effectiveness in improving cardiovascular outcomes. PA is a common cause of hypertension that leads to disproportionately high rates of cardiovascular disease. Future studies are needed to enhance the clinical approach to both identification and treatment of patients with PA to optimize long-term cardiovascular outcomes.

Keywords: Atrial fibrillation; Cardiovascular disease; Conn’s syndrome; Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist; Primary aldosteronism; Primary hyperaldosteronism.