Primary aldosteronism: part II: subtype differentiation and treatment

J Nephrol. 2008 Jul-Aug;21(4):455-62.

Abstract

After discussing in Part I (Rossi et al, J Nephrol. 2008;21:447-454) the screening strategy to identify the hypertensive patients with primary aldosteronism (PA), we report here an update on the methodology for the further diagnostic work-up and treatment of PA patients. The most common forms of PA are aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) and adrenocortical hyperplasia (BAH), which are unilateral or bilateral sources of aldosterone excess secretion, respectively. Since APA needs a surgical approach, in contrast to BAH which requires medical treatment, it is crucial to clearly delineate a diagnostic work-up aimed at discriminating the 2 forms. Clinical usefulness and accuracy of adrenal vein sampling, imaging tests (e.g., computed tomography and magnetic resonance) and mineralocorticoid adrenocortical scintigraphy are discussed in detail.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Glands / blood supply
  • Adrenal Glands / diagnostic imaging
  • Adrenalectomy / methods*
  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Hyperaldosteronism / diagnosis*
  • Hyperaldosteronism / therapy*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Radionuclide Imaging
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Veins / pathology

Substances

  • Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists