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The inactivating mutation leads to elevated local concentrations of cortisol in the aldosterone sensitive tissues like the kidney. Cortisol at high concentrations can cross-react and activate the mineralocorticoid receptor due to the non-selectivity of the receptor, leading to aldosterone-like effects in the kidney.
These symptoms occur less frequently with eplerenone drug therapy. [30] In the absence of treatment, individuals with hyperaldosteronism often have poorly controlled high blood pressure, which may be associated with increased rates of stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is considered good. [31]
ACTH, a pituitary peptide, also has some stimulating effect on aldosterone probably by stimulating deoxycorticosterone formation which is a precursor of aldosterone. Aldosterone is increased by blood loss, pregnancy, and possibly by other circumstances such as physical exertion, endotoxin shock, and burns. Aldosterone feedback: [citation needed]
Aldosterone is the main mineralocorticoid steroid hormone produced by the zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex in the adrenal gland. [4] [5] It is essential for sodium conservation in the kidney, salivary glands, sweat glands, and colon. [6]
On one hand, mutations on the gene NR3C2 (coding the mineralocorticoid receptor) cause the synthesis of a non-functional receptor which is unable to bind aldosterone or function correctly. In the kidney, aldosterone plays an important role of regulating sodium and potassium homeostasis by its actions on distal nephron cells. [3]
Secondary hyperaldosteronism (also hyperreninism, or hyperreninemic hyperaldosteronism) is due to overactivity of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS).. The causes of secondary hyperaldosteronism are accessory renal veins, fibromuscular dysplasia, reninoma, renal tubular acidosis, nutcracker syndrome, ectopic tumors, massive ascites, left ventricular failure, and cor pulmonale.
Generally, the symptoms manifest through the systemic effects of cortisol and aldosterone. [2] [3] In secondary and tertiary adrenal insufficiency, there is no effect on the production of aldosterone within the zona glomerulosa as this process is regulated by the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS), not ACTH. [3]
Rapid onset of symptoms indicates acute adrenal failure, which is a clinical emergency. [5] An adrenal crisis can be triggered by stress, such as from an injury, surgery, or infection. [1] Addison's disease arises when the adrenal gland does not produce sufficient amounts of the steroid hormones cortisol and (sometimes) aldosterone. [1]