Description

Hypertension contributes to increased morbidity and mortality in a growing subset of the population.
Despite being well documented, management of this condition still remains problematic in
many individuals. Over the recent years, hypertension induced by mineralocorticoid excess has
become more apparent. Primary aldosteronism represents the most common cause of secondary
hypertension induced by mineralocorticoid excess, and is thought to occur in up to approximately
10% of the hypertensive population, a small yet significant proportion. Beyond its effect on blood
pressure, excess aldosterone production has been shown to induce other cardiovascular pathologies
and thus its detection, diagnosis and effective management should be considered a clinically
cost-effective goal. Establishing a diagnosis and providing treatment options in patients with suspected
hyperaldosteronism remains a challenging prospect. Increasing awareness and continuing research
into this field is essential in optimising identification of affected individuals and for the development
of effective treatment options.