aldosteronism
(al‵dos'tĕ-rō‵nĭzm 
)
[aldosterone + -ism]
An uncommon cause of hypertension in which the blood contains abnormally high levels of aldosterone. The syndrome results from sodium retention and excretion of potassium by the kidneys. Although it is frequently asymptomatic, patients may occasionally experience frequent urination, nocturia, or headache. If potassium losses are severe, muscular weakness, cramps, tetany, or cardiac arrhythmias may occur. SYN: hyperaldosteronism.
primary a.Aldosteronism due to excess secretion of aldosterone. This may be due to a single aldosterone-secreting adenoma or a bilateral adrenal hyperplasia and can result in significant hypertension and hypokalemia. Treatment, whether surgical or medical, s based on etiology, either surgical or medical therapy.SYN: Conn syndrome.