ABSTRACT
PA is caused by several different types of adrenal gland hyperfunction that produce and secrete excess amounts of aldosterone secretion. Historically, a common cause of hyperaldosteronism was thought to be an aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA), which is a small (diameter <3 cm), solitary tumor that is monoclonal in origin. Broad screening of patients with hypertension has identified many more cases of PA, and from a variety of origins. Unilateral adrenal hyperplasia is an uncommon cause of PA. Bilateral idiopathic adrenal hyperplasia (IAH) causes PA, but usually has less severe hormonal and biochemical abnormalities when compared with other forms of adenoma.
