Hipertensión e hipopotasemia en una mujer de 49 años

Abstract

Primary aldosteronism resulting from an adrenocortical adenoma is an uncommon but potentially curable form of hypertension. We present the case of a 49-year-old woman that initiated with severe hypertension that was treated with diuretics and ACE inhibitors before being hospitalized. When she came to consult, she had hypokalemia. This persisted in spite of administering potassium supplements and discontinuing the diuretics and ACE secuninhibitors. Therefore, a study was made regarding secondary arterial hypertension. Plasma renin activity was suppressed and aldosterone levels were elevated. Computed tomographic scanning detected a well-delimitated mass in left adrenal gland, suggesting Conn's syndrome. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed and microscopy findings were consistent with aldosteronoma. After surgery hypertension was resolved and potassium levels remained normal.We consider that the data supporting the probable presence of secondary hypertension should be stressed, not only to perform studies but also to adjust the initial treatment, avoiding drugs that interfere with the evaluation, whenever blood pressure control allows it.