Plasma 19-hydroxy-androstenedione (19-OH-A) in essential hypertension

19-hydroxy-androstenedione (19-OH-A), a C19 steroid, is an amplifier of the sodium retaining action of aldosterone under the control of ACTH and renin-angiotensin system. These findings suggest that 19-OH-A may be involved in the regulation of hydroelectrolyte balance and blood pressure. Aim of the present study was to examine the behaviour of 19-OH-A in normal volunteers (N) and in patients with Essential Hypertension (EH) in basal conditions and after dynamic tests such as postural changes, physical exercise and ACTH administration. The significant increase in 19-OH-A after ACTH confirms its adrenal origin. During bicycle exercise the significant increase in plasma catecholamines, renin-activity, aldosterone, blood pressure and heart rate at maximum effort was not associated with a parallel increase in 19-OH-A. No significant differences were found in plasma 19-OH-A levels between N and EH patients both in basal conditions and after dynamic tests. Therefore, our findings seem to exclude an important role of 19-OH-A in the pathogenesis of EH.