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Aldosterone and arterial hypertension.
Andreas Tomaschitz1, Stefan Pilz, Eberhard Ritz
1Division of Endocrinology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria. andreas.tomaschitz@gmx.at
Nature Reviews. Endocrinology
|December 23, 2009
Summary
Aldosterone influences blood pressure even at normal levels, contributing to hypertension. Mineralocorticoid-receptor blockers show efficacy, supporting aldosterone's role in elevated blood pressure without primary aldosteronism.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Elevated aldosterone is linked to hypertension in primary aldosteronism.
- Aldosterone can affect blood pressure even within normal ranges.
- The aldosterone-to-renin ratio indicates hypertension risk, irrespective of absolute aldosterone levels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of aldosterone in hypertension development and maintenance.
- To explore the interplay of genetic and environmental factors in aldosterone-mediated hypertension.
- To examine aldosterone's impact on target organs and its central nervous system effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and data.
- Analysis of aldosterone's action on the kidney's collecting duct.
- Assessment of aldosterone's effects on vasculature and the central nervous system.
Main Results:
- Aldosterone contributes to hypertension beyond primary aldosteronism.
- Aldosterone-mediated arterial hypertension involves complex genetic and environmental interactions.
- Target organ damage is associated with aldosterone action.
Conclusions:
- Aldosterone plays a significant role in blood pressure elevation, even in the absence of primary aldosteronism.
- Mineralocorticoid-receptor blockers demonstrate antihypertensive efficacy in various aldosterone ranges.
- Further understanding of aldosterone's multifaceted role in hypertension is crucial.
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