Glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism

Arq Bras Endocrinol Metabol. 2004 Oct;48(5):682-6. doi: 10.1590/s0004-27302004000500014. Epub 2005 Mar 7.

Abstract

Glucocorticoid-remediable aldosteronism (GRA) is a monogenic form of human hypertension that predisposes to cerebral hemorrhage. As a result of a chimeric gene duplication, aldosterone is ectopically synthesized in the cortisol-secreting zona fasciculata of the adrenal gland under the control of adrenocorticotropin (ACTH). Hypertension frequently has its onset during childhood and is usually refractory to standard anti-hypertensives such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers. Hypokalemia can develop in those treated with a potassium-wasting diuretic, but random potassium levels are usually normal. Diagnosis has been facilitated by the availability of a genetic test. Suppression of ACTH release with exogenous dexamethasone is a useful diagnostic and therapeutic strategy. Treatment with the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists spironolactone and epleronone is also efficacious. The diagnosis of GRA facilitates directed therapies and screening of at-risk individuals and kindreds.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Hyperaldosteronism / diagnosis
  • Hyperaldosteronism / drug therapy*
  • Hyperaldosteronism / genetics
  • Hyperaldosteronism / physiopathology

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids