Pediatric Endocrine Hypertension Related to the Adrenal Glands

Abstract

Endocrine causes of pediatric hypertension are relatively rare but important because of their distinct treatment options. Adrenal diseases accompanied by an excess of mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and catecholamines are major causes of endocrine hypertension. Typical causes of mineralocorticoid-related hypertension include primary aldosteronism, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (11β- and 17α-hydroxylase deficiencies), and apparent mineralocorticoid excess. Cushing syndrome and pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma are the primary causes of glucocorticoid- and catecholamine-related hypertension, respectively. This review provides an overview of the diagnostic evaluations, including hormonal assays and imaging studies, used to identify the underlying causes of pediatric endocrine hypertension, focusing on adrenal disorders. It presents details regarding the major adrenal disorders and recommended therapeutic approaches, emphasizing the importance of early detection and disease-specific management to prevent cardiovascular and metabolic complications in affected children.