Which condition is characterized by sodium retention leading to water retention and hypertension?

Which condition is characterized by sodium retention leading to water retention and hypertension?

• A. Cushing's Disease
• B. Acromegaly
• C. Primary Aldosteronism
• D. Hypoparathyroidism

Answer: (C)

Excess aldosterone drives sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron, and water follows sodium. When aldosterone is high, the kidneys retain more sodium, which pulls in more water, expanding the circulating volume and raising blood pressure. This pattern is classic for primary aldosteronism ( autonomous aldosterone production by the adrenal cortex), leading to sodium and water retention with hypertension and often low potassium. Cushing’s disease involves cortisol excess, which can contribute to hypertension and fluid retention but not primarily through aldosterone-driven sodium handling. Acromegaly centers on excess growth hormone with metabolic and cardiovascular effects that aren’t defined by sodium retention. Hypoparathyroidism affects calcium and phosphate balance rather than volume status or blood pressure.

Excess aldosterone drives sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron, and water follows sodium. When aldosterone is high, the kidneys retain more sodium, which pulls in more water, expanding the circulating volume and raising blood pressure. This pattern is classic for primary aldosteronism ( autonomous aldosterone production by the adrenal cortex), leading to sodium and water retention with hypertension and often low potassium.

Cushing’s disease involves cortisol excess, which can contribute to hypertension and fluid retention but not primarily through aldosterone-driven sodium handling. Acromegaly centers on excess growth hormone with metabolic and cardiovascular effects that aren’t defined by sodium retention. Hypoparathyroidism affects calcium and phosphate balance rather than volume status or blood pressure.