Acid base problems


Apparent mineralocorticoid excess syndromes

A number of hereditary abnormalities affecting the distal tubule mimic mineralocorticoid excess:

  • Loss of the ability to down-regulate the Na+ channel in the cortical collecting duct (Liddle's syndrome).

  • A defect leading to inactivation of an enzyme associated with the aldosterone receptor, resulting in the receptor being activated by cortisol as well as aldosterone.

These conditions are characterised by a very low aldosterone level.


Back