Match each of the following clinical conditions with its characteristic laboratory profile involving plasma renin activity, serum aldosterone, and potassium levels.
- Primary hyperaldosteronism (e.g., Conn syndrome)Decreased plasma renin activity, elevated serum aldosterone, hypokalemia
- Renovascular hypertension (e.g., fibromuscular dysplasia)Elevated plasma renin activity, elevated serum aldosterone, hypokalemia
- Primary adrenal insufficiency (e.g., autoimmune adrenalitis)Elevated plasma renin activity, decreased serum aldosterone, hyperkalemia
- Pseudohyperaldosteronism (e.g., chronic licorice ingestion)Decreased plasma renin activity, decreased serum aldosterone, hypokalemia
Answer
Primary hyperaldosteronism matches decreased renin and elevated aldosterone; renovascular hypertension matches elevated renin and elevated aldosterone; primary adrenal insufficiency matches elevated renin and decreased aldosterone; and chronic licorice ingestion matches decreased renin and decreased aldosterone.
Each condition presents a unique physiological disruption of the RAAS. Primary hyperaldosteronism shows autonomous aldosterone secretion with suppressed renin. Renovascular hypertension shows renin-driven aldosterone excess. Primary adrenal insufficiency shows a lack of aldosterone with compensatory renin elevation. Licorice ingestion causes an exogenous mineralocorticoid effect, expanding volume and suppressing both renin and endogenous aldosterone.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Interpretation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in adrenal and renovascular disorders