Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Endocrinology and metabolism

Primary aldosteronism: making the diagnosis and why it matters

Michael Stowasser
Abstract
It has been recognised that primary aldosteronism is a much more common cause of hypertension than previously thought and this has led to increased interest in this condition. Being a common but potentially reversible cause of cardiovascular morbidity and reduced quality of life, primary aldosteronism is well worth looking for.
Key Points
  • Primary aldosteronism is more common than is realised.
  • All patients presenting with hypertension and those with difficult to control or treatment-resistant hypertension should be screened for primary aldosteronism.
  • Primary aldosteronism has more profound cardiovascular consequences per millimetre of blood pressure than other forms of hypertension.
  • Primary aldosteronism is specifically treatable and potentially curable.
  • The presence of hypokalaemia is not essential for the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism.
Get full access
Subscribe for full access to all articles
Buy this article

Single article purchases are temporarily unavailable due to site maintenance.

If you would like to purchase an article during this time, please email us at [email protected] with the article details and we'll assist you directly. We'll also let you know when online purchasing is available again.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Already a subscriber?