Macronodule associated with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia. a rare misleading cause of primary aldosteronism (two cases)
Leprat, F.; Tabarin, A.; Dubourg, H.; Barat, J.L.; Ducassou, D.; Roger, P.; Dallocchio, M.; Latapie, J.L.
Presse Medicale 20(19): 899-902
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0755-4982 PMID: 1829188 Document Number: 385584
Aldosterone-producing adrenal adenoma and bilateral hyperplasia are the two predominant subtypes of primary aldosteronism. Their recognition is based essentially on adrenal CT scan and on measurements of plasma aldosterone and 18-hydroxycorticosterone (18-OHB) concentrations in response to postural testing. We report 2 cases of primary aldosteronism associated with a unilateral hyperplastic macronodule resembling an aldosterone-producing adenoma on CT scan. Plasma aldosterone and 18-OHB concentrations were consistent with this diagnosis in one patient. In the light of these two cases and of those previously published, the investigations needed for the etiological diagnosis of primary aldosteronism are discussed.