Conn's syndrome (also known as primary hyperaldosteronism) is caused by an overproduction of the hormone aldosterone. In most cases, an enlargement of the adrenal cortex is responsible. In some cases, an aldosterone-producing adenoma of the adrenal cortex is the cause of the overproduction. Very rarely, there is a familial form that is genetically inherited.
Here you will find more information about the clinical picture as well as a selection of Conn’s syndrome specialists.
Symptoms of Conn's Syndrome
The classic symptoms of elevated aldosterone levels in the blood are
- high blood pressure
- headaches
- abnormal heart rate
- muscle weakness
- Cramps
- Constipation
However, these symptoms usually occur only when the cause of the overproduction is a benign tumor (adenoma) of the adrenal glands. If, on the other hand, the cause is an enlargement of the adrenal cortex—as is the case in most instances—the only symptom is high blood pressure.
Conn’s syndrome is caused by a disorder of the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys themselves © 7activestudio | AdobeStock
Recognizing Conn’s Syndrome
The condition usually manifests only as high blood pressure (hypertension). Therefore, diagnosis begins with identifying the cause and determining the severity of the hypertension. Patients have often been receiving treatment for this condition for some time. Conn’s syndrome is only suspected when blood pressure cannot be adequately controlled despite various medications.
Measuring aldosterone and renin levels is a useful screening test. Renin is the hormone that regulates the release of aldosterone in healthy individuals. When aldosterone levels are elevated, renin production is downregulated. In Conn’s syndrome, the ratio of aldosterone to renin will be very low.
Other tests are used for further diagnosis, which attempt to influence aldosterone production in various ways.
To determine the exact cause of Conn’s syndrome, imaging procedures are necessary, such as
Treating Conn’s syndrome
Regardless of the underlying causes, the initial treatment for Conn’s syndrome is the same: Doctors use medications to inhibit the effect of aldosterone in the target cells.
These so-called “aldosterone antagonists” are spironolactone and eplerenone. These are the most effective medications for lowering blood pressure when Conn’s syndrome is the underlying cause.
If Conn’s syndrome is caused by an adenoma, it can be surgically removed. However, medication is still necessary at first to normalize aldosterone levels and thereby reduce the risks associated with surgery.
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