Hyperaldosteronism Presenting With Unilateral Blindness: A Case Report

Cureus. 2023 Aug 9;15(8):e43195. doi: 10.7759/cureus.43195. eCollection 2023 Aug.

Abstract

Hyperaldosteronism is a common cause of secondary hypertension. It has been classically associated with the clinical triad of hypertension, unexplained hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis. We present a case of a 66-year-old man who experienced blindness, hypokalemia, and hypertension that was resistant to anti-hypertension medications. He was found to have a retinal detachment and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Laboratory evaluation revealed a marked elevation of plasma aldosterone activity and suppressed renin. A computerized tomography (CT) abdomen was subsequently ordered, which revealed bilateral adrenal nodules. Adrenal vein sampling was performed, which confirmed bilateral hyperfunctioning adrenal nodules. He was successfully treated with spironolactone. CRVO in the setting of hyperaldosteronism is an uncommon presentation.

Keywords: blind; blindness unilateral; central retinal vein occlusion (crvo); hyperaldosteronism; primary hyperaldosteronism; resistant hypertension.

Publication types

  • Case Reports