Endocrine hypertension
Endocrine hypertension
Endocrine hypertension refers to high blood pressure (hypertension) caused by the abnormal production of hormones.
The most common form of endocrine hypertension is primary aldosteronism (PA), also known as Conn syndrome. In primary aldosteronism, the adrenal glands, which sit on top of each kidney, produce too much aldosterone (a hormone that retains salt in the body). This can lead to excess salt and fluid retention and increased blood pressure. It also increases the risk of heart arrhythmia, heart attack and stroke more than ordinary forms of hypertension.
Primary aldosteronism affects five to 10 per cent of those with hypertension but often goes undiagnosed. It is treatable with medication and/or surgery, depending on the cause.
Our primary aldosteronism research
Dr Jun Yang discusses her research in primary aldosteronism, a common, potentially curable but often neglected form of high blood pressure. Dr Jun Yang raises awareness about primary aldosteronism and how a single blood test could change the course of peoples lives, and even lead to a cure.
High blood pressure and primary aldosteronism explained
Caused by a hormone imbalance, primary aldosteronism is often undiagnosed or given incorrect treatment. Hudson Institute research teams are working to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this serious but potentially curable disease and related conditions.
Dr Jun Yang explains more about her research on high blood pressure and primary aldosteronism with Dr Norman Swan on the ABC Health Report.
Our primary aldosteronism research projects
Seeking non-invasive ways to detect hormone-induced high blood pressure
Diagnosis. High blood pressure may be caused by an overactive adrenal gland that produces too much aldosterone – a hormone which controls salt balance. If only one adrenal gland is involved, treatment can involve the surgical removal of this gland. Investigation on whether one or both adrenal glands are affected currently requires an invasive blood test. Dr Jimmy Shen and Hudson Institute’s team together with Dr Ian Jong, Monash Health are exploring whether non-invasive scans can be used as an alternative to the invasive blood test.
Team | Dr Jimmy Shen, Professor Peter Fuller AM, Peta Nutall, Associate Professor Jun Yang
Hunting a potentially curable cause of high blood pressure
Detection. Primary aldosteronism (PA) can cause preventable strokes, heart attacks, heart arrhythmias and kidney failure. PA manifests as high blood pressure and is potentially curable but doctors do not routinely screen for the condition, which can be a silent killer. Dr Renata Libianto’s goal is to increase the detection of PA through a simple blood test, so patients can be effectively treated and live healthier lives.Improving the diagnosis of hormone-related high blood pressure
Molecular studies. Detection. Health professionals measure hormone levels to diagnose primary aldosteronism, which involves excess production of the hormone aldosterone and can lead to high blood pressure. However, current methods used are not always accurate. Dr Renata Libianto is investigating cell-based markers of aldosterone activity that reveal if the excess production of aldosterone is wreaking havoc in the body.Advocating for the timely diagnosis of primary aldosteronism
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Hudson Institute scientists cannot provide medical advice.
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