The Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System in Normotensive and Hypertensive Patients with Acromegaly

Abstract The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system was found to be normal in 10 normotensive patients with acromegaly both in the basal state and after sodium deprivation and in the upright position. In this group, blood volume was significantly increased during normal sodium intake. In four of five hypertensive patients with acromegaly, primary hyperaldosteronism, suspected from the finding of a suppressed renin-angiotensin system, was confirmed by increased aldosterone secretion rates; an adrenal adenoma was found in the one patient in whom surgery was performed. These data indicate that study of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system is worthwhile in hypertensive patients with acromegaly since, in case of an associated primary hyperaldosteronism, cure or effective relief of high blood pressure may be expected.