Conn’s syndrome
Overview
A rare metabolic endocrine disorder characterized by excessive secretion of aldosterone resulting in an imbalance of important body chemicals.
Symptoms
* Headache * Excessive urination at night * Excessive thirst * Excessive urination * Asthenia * Pins and needles sensation * Tetany * Muscle weakness * Transient paralysis * Arterial hypertension * Low potassium level * Increased volume of blood * Increased blood sodium level * High alkalinity of blood and body fluids * Tingling * Sensation of warmth * Muscle spasms
Causes
Adrenal cortex tumours
Diagnosis
The workup of alkalosis should include a CBC, chemistry panel, urinalysis, electrolytes, arterial blood gas analysis, flat plate of the abdomen, chest x-ray, and consultation with an endocrinologist.
Treatment
Although treatment of primary hyperaldosteronism may include unilateral adrenalectomy, administration of a potassium-sparing diuretic — spironolactone — and sodium restriction may control hyperaldosteronism without surgery. For bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, spironolactone is the drug of choice. Treatment of secondary hyperaldosteronism must include correction of the underlying cause.