Idiopathic Hyperaldosteronism: A Possible Role for Aldosterone-Stimulating Factor

Abstract To test the hypothesis that idiopathic hyperaldosteronism is secondary to increased adrenal stimulation by aldosterone-stimulating factor, we measured the latter in seven patients with idiopathic hyperaldosteronism and in four patients who had undergone surgical removal of an aldosterone-producing adenoma. In the patients with hyperaldosteronism, plasma aldosterone concentrations (mean ±1 S.E.) were 38±10 and 78±19 ng per deciliter in the supine and upright position, respectively (P