Glucocorticoids: The culprit behind metabolic disorders in primary Aldosteronism? A narrative review

Abstract

In recent years, a new approach toward aldosterone secretion autonomy has emerged as a consequence of studies demonstrating its continuum from subclinical, mild to overt and severe forms. These clinical insights were accompanied by immense progress in deciphering the tissue and cellular pathology underlying primary aldosteronism (PA).

Thus far, research has not sufficiently elucidated the relationships between overt PA and metabolic disorders. Similarly, the role of glucocorticoid cosecretion in this patient group remains unclear. Milder than overt PA forms have been scarcely investigated.

This review critically analyzes these issues on the basis of a literature search of the PubMed database.