Question

A patient that has hypertension and has been diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism may also have:

a. Hyponatremia
b. Hypokalemia
c. Hypercalcemia
d. Hyperphosphatemia

Answer 1

A patient with primary hyperaldosteronism and hypertension is likely to have hypokalemia due to the role of aldosterone in promoting potassium excretion while retaining sodium and water, contributing to hypertension and hypervolemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

A patient diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism who also has hypertension is likely to have hypokalemia. Primary hyperaldosteronism, often caused by an adrenal adenoma or hyperplasia, leads to excessive aldosterone production. Aldosterone causes sodium and water retention, which can lead to hypertension and hypervolemia. Additionally, it promotes the excretion of potassium, resulting in low blood levels of potassium or hypokalemia. Conversely, hyperaldosteronism does not typically lead to hyponatremia because the reabsorption of sodium is a part of its pathophysiology. The condition is also not associated with hypercalcemia or hyperphosphatemia; these electrolyte disturbances are more commonly seen in conditions like hyperparathyroidism.