Differential Diagnosis for Hyperaldosteronism
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Primary Aldosteronism (Conn's Syndrome): This condition is characterized by the excessive production of aldosterone due to an adrenal gland disorder, such as an aldosterone-producing adenoma. It is the most common cause of secondary hypertension and accounts for a significant proportion of cases of hyperaldosteronism.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Renal Artery Stenosis: This condition involves the narrowing of the renal arteries, which can lead to increased aldosterone production as a response to decreased blood flow to the kidneys.
- Congestive Heart Failure: In heart failure, the decreased cardiac output can lead to increased aldosterone levels as the body attempts to retain sodium and water.
- Nephrotic Syndrome: This condition involves excessive loss of protein in the urine, leading to hypoalbuminemia, which can cause increased aldosterone production.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cushing's Syndrome: Although less common, Cushing's syndrome can cause hyperaldosteronism due to excess cortisol production, which has mineralocorticoid effects.
- Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can produce excess catecholamines, leading to hypertension and potentially affecting aldosterone production.
- Liddle's Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by excessive sodium absorption and potassium wasting, mimicking the effects of hyperaldosteronism.
Rare Diagnoses
- Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism: A rare familial form of hyperaldosteronism caused by a genetic mutation, leading to aldosterone production being regulated by ACTH instead of the usual renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
- Aldosterone-Producing Adrenal Carcinoma: A rare and aggressive tumor of the adrenal gland that can produce excessive amounts of aldosterone.
- Hyperreninemic Hyperaldosteronism: A rare condition characterized by excessive renin production, leading to increased aldosterone levels.