A 39-year-old woman reports headaches, weakness and fatigue, and frequent urination over the past several weeks. Physical examination reveals diastolic hypertension. Laboratory findings include hypokalemia and reduced renin levels. Which of the following is the most likely cause of these various findings?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms and lab findings are consistent with Conn syndrome (primary hyperaldosteronism), which is characterized by hypertension, hypokalemia, and low renin levels due to excessive production of aldosterone.  Primary aldosteronism caused by an aldosterone-secreting adrenal neoplasm is known as Conn syndrome. Excess aldosterone production leads to increased sodium retention and reciprocal potassium depletion in the renal distal tubule; polyuria results from impairment in urinary concentrating ability. Increased sodium reabsorption and associated extracellular fluid expansion lead to diastolic hypertension and suppression of the renin-angiotensin pathway. Muscle weakness and fatigue are a consequence of hypokalemia, which may be severe in some cases.

A 39-Year-Old Woman Reports Headaches, Weakness and Fatigue, and Frequent