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Updated: Sep 14, 2025

A Novel Method: Super-selective Adrenal Venous Sampling
Published on: September 15, 2017
Primary Hyperaldosteronism Presenting as Cardiac Arrest: A Case Report
Maryam Saleem1,2,3, Maahin M Khan4, Hassaan Iftikhar1,2,5
1Nephrology, Ohio Valley Nephrology Associates, Owensboro, USA.
Insights
Primary hyperaldosteronism, a common hypertension cause, can lead to severe hypokalemia and cardiac arrest. Early diagnosis and treatment, like adrenalectomy, are crucial for patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Primary hyperaldosteronism is an underdiagnosed cause of hypertension, linked to increased cardiovascular risks.
- It often presents as treatment-resistant hypertension and hypokalemia.
Observation:
- A patient experienced cardiac arrest due to severe hypokalemia.
- This critical event prompted further investigation into underlying causes.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism.
- Diagnosis was confirmed using adrenal vein sampling.
- Successful treatment involved a left adrenalectomy.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for early recognition of primary hyperaldosteronism.
- Emphasizes the severe cardiovascular consequences of undiagnosed hyperaldosteronism.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of surgical intervention for primary hyperaldosteronism.
Abstract:
Primary hyperaldosteronism is an underdiagnosed cause of hypertension despite its increasing prevalence and strong association with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Early recognition is critical. Individuals with primary aldosteronism generally present with treatment-resistant hypertension and hypokalemia. Here, we present the case of a patient who experienced cardiac arrest due to severe hypokalemia and was subsequently diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism, confirmed through adrenal vein sampling. The condition was successfully treated with a left adrenalectomy.
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