Acquired Primary Hypoaldosteronism Due to an Isolated Zona Glomerulosa Defect

Abstract

ALDOSTERONE deficiency is a well-described phenomenon, occurring most commonly in states of primary adrenocortical insufficiency, in which autoimmune processes, tuberculosis, hemorrhage, and other destructive diseases result in deficiencies of both cortisol and aldosterone.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Aldosterone deficiency due to congenital biochemical defects involving enzymes participating in its biosynthesis has been well documented.8 9 10 Isolated hypoaldosteronism, not associated with cortisol deficiency, occurring in adults has also been described.11 12 13 14 In the adult population, this entity has been observed most commonly in association with moderate renal insufficiency resulting from diabetic nephropathy, but it is also observed in nondiabetics with interstitial nephritis.15 , 16 Acquired, isolated hypoaldosteronism in these . . .