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Hind Hibatouallah1, Mohamed Mehdi Guedira2, Selma Siagh1
1Département de cardiologie, Hôpital Militaire D'Instruction Mohamed V, Rabat, Maroc.
Annales De Cardiologie Et D'Angeiologie
|September 24, 2025
Summary
Primary hyperaldosteronism, a common hypertension cause, is underdiagnosed but linked to higher cardiovascular risks. Screening hypertensive patients with atrial fibrillation can improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Cardiology
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Primary hyperaldosteronism (PHA) is the leading cause of secondary hypertension, affecting 5-15% of patients.
- PHA is frequently underdiagnosed due to nonspecific symptoms and inadequate screening.
- PHA significantly increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality compared to essential hypertension.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the underappreciated association between primary hyperaldosteronism and atrial fibrillation (AF).
- To emphasize the importance of screening for PHA in hypertensive patients presenting with unexplained AF.
- To underscore the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in AF pathophysiology.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with hypertension, hypokalemia, and AF.
- Diagnostic workup included exclusion of other AF causes and hormonal testing for PHA.
- Confirmation of PHA due to a Conn's adenoma, followed by laparoscopic adrenalectomy.
Main Results:
- The patient was diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism secondary to a Conn's adenoma.
- Laparoscopic adrenalectomy resulted in favorable outcomes.
- Hormonal testing confirmed PHA, leading to targeted treatment.
Conclusions:
- PHA is strongly associated with atrial fibrillation, a common arrhythmia.
- Targeted screening for PHA in hypertensive patients with AF is crucial for improved cardiovascular prognosis.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of PHA can mitigate associated cardiovascular risks.