Conn's Syndrome

Exam Cram

• Conn's syndrome: hyperaldosteronism, from adrenal gland adenoma

• Commonest cause of hyperaldosteronism and secondary hypertension

• Presentation: treatment resistant hypertension, Na upper limit of normal, K+ low 3.0-3.6, metabolic alkalosis

• Diagnosis: adenoma in CTAP

Outline

Background

• Conn's syndrome: hyperaldosteronism, from adrenal gland adenoma

• Commonest cause of hyperaldosteronism and secondary hypertension

Assessment

History

• •  30-50 yr old 

  • Asymptomatic

Examination

• Hypertensive: +- treatment resistant

Investigations

• • Na+ upper limit, K+ lower limit/ HypoKalaemia , alkalosis

  • Aldosterone high, renin low

  • CTAP: adrenal adenoma

Diagnosis

Diagnostic criteria: imaging + symptoms

Differentials: bilateral/ unilateral adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing's syndrome

Management

Lifestyle- low salt diet

Medical- BP Control:

1. Spironolactone

2. ACEi/ ARB

Surgical- resection

Med Reg Notes

Renin: aldosterone ratio

Withhold ACEi, ARB, CCB, beta blocker & thiazide duiretics; amlodipine acceptable

Resources and References

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