Conn syndrome
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Conn syndrome
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USMLE® Step 1 style questions USMLE
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A 44-year-old man comes to his physician complaining of muscle weakness and headaches for the past 2 months. He is a construction worker and has found it difficult to lift large objects during the job. The patient has no significant past medical history, but he states his blood pressure was “high” at a recent health fair. Temperature is 37.0°C (98.6°F), pulse is 82/min, and blood pressure is 165/92 mm Hg. Physical examination reveals no abnormalities. Laboratory testing reveals the following findings:
Serum renin levels are decreased. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient’s condition?
| Laboratory Value | Result |
| Serum | |
| Sodium | 147 mEq/L |
| Potassium | 2.9 mEq/L |
| Chloride | 105 mEq/L |
| HCO3- | 32 mEq/L |
| Creatinine | 0.6 mg/dL |
| Glucose | 94 mg/dL |
Serum renin levels are decreased. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient’s condition?
Summary
Conn syndrome, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, is a rare disorder caused by high levels of aldosterone hormone. Aldosterone is produced by the adrenal gland, promotes Sodium conservation in the kidney, and helps the body keep Sodium and water balance.
In Conn syndrome, the adrenal gland produces too much aldosterone, and this causes the body to retain too much salt and water. This can lead to high blood pressure, edema, and hypokalemia (low potassium levels in the blood). Conn syndrome can be caused by adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal adenoma.