What is an Aldosteronoma?
An aldosteronoma is an adrenal tumor which makes excess amounts of aldosterone. Aldosterone normally helps regulate fluid status in the body, sodium and potassium levels, and affects blood pressure.
What are the signs and symptoms of hyperaldosteronism?
Hyperaldosteronism can lower potassium levels in the body, which can cause the following symptoms:
- Weakness.
- Tingling feelings.
- Muscle spasms.
- Temporary paralysis.
- Extreme thirst.
- Frequent urination (having to urinate often)
Which gland is affected in Aldosteronoma?
An aldosterone-producing tumor or aldosteronoma is a benign tumor in one of the adrenal glands that makes too much aldosterone. In bilateral hyperplasia, both adrenal glands are hyperactive and make too much aldosterone.
What does epinephrine mean?
Epinephrine, more commonly known as adrenaline, is a hormone secreted by the medulla of the adrenal glands. Strong emotions such as fear or anger cause epinephrine to be released into the bloodstream, which causes an increase in heart rate, muscle strength, blood pressure, and sugar metabolism.
What are the symptoms of low aldosterone?
Symptoms
- Extreme fatigue.
- Weight loss and decreased appetite.
- Darkening of your skin (hyperpigmentation)
- Low blood pressure, even fainting.
- Salt craving.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Nausea, diarrhea or vomiting (gastrointestinal symptoms)
- Abdominal pain.
When should you suspect hyperaldosteronism?
Diagnosis can initially be confirmed with the elevated morning aldosterone to plasma renin activity ratio. If the ratio is higher than 20 to 1; then the excess aldosterone points to the adrenal gland as the primary source. The preferred treatment is adrenalectomy in those with unilateral disease.
How is Conn syndrome treated?
Surgical removal of the tumor is the definitive treatment for Conn’s syndrome. The procedure, called an adrenalectomy, usually cures the high blood pressure and low potassium levels, which usually return to normal in most patients.
