Our evolving understanding of primary aldosteronism

Abstract

Primary aldosteronism is the most commonendocrine cause of hypertension, andis often associated with treatment-resistanthypertension.1 It is characterized by autonomousaldosterone production independentof renin activity, potassium level, or volumestatus. Its prevalence has been debated, andstudies are fraught with limitations, includingreliance on tests that do not confi rm the diagnosis.It has been identifi ed as a public healthissue,2 and the urgency in identifying andtreating it is heightened by its strong associationwith adverse kidney and cardiovascularoutcomes.1,3,4