Primary Aldosteronism Found in One-Fifth of Individuals with High Blood Pressure
An international research team has identified a hormonal cause underlying hypertension linked to primary aldosteronism, a condition affecting roughly 20% of patients with elevated blood pressure. This disorder significantly raises the risk of strokes and cardiovascular disease. Diagnosing it has been challenging because hormone levels fluctuate throughout the day, making detection difficult. Notably, aldosterone surges primarily occur at night during sleep, yet routine nighttime blood tests are rarely performed.
Innovative Portable Monitoring Device Developed
To overcome these diagnostic hurdles, scientists created U-RHYTHM, a compact, phone-sized device worn on the waist that collects hormone samples every 20 minutes over a 24-hour period. In a pilot study involving 60 patients using the device at home during normal daily activities and sleep, researchers found that aldosterone levels can temporarily drop below diagnostic thresholds, even in severe cases, complicating conventional testing methods.
These nocturnal spikes in aldosterone indicate adrenal gland dysfunction. Importantly, surgical removal of the affected adrenal gland eliminates these abnormal hormone fluctuations. The findings were published on September 15 at 17:03 in Science Translational Medicine. The study was conducted by scientists from the University of Bristol and University of Manchester, alongside collaborators from Norway, Sweden, and Greece.
Identifying hormonal factors behind hypertension has the potential to significantly enhance diagnosis and treatment of patients with primary aldosteronism. The U-RHYTHM device’s ability to continuously monitor aldosterone levels offers a promising advancement that could transform hypertension management. This breakthrough provides clinicians with new tools for timely detection and intervention, marking a crucial step forward in reducing cardiovascular risks associated with high blood pressure.