Management of Fluid and Electrolyte problems in Children

Aldosterone is produced by the zona glomerulosa cells of the adrenal gland in response to:

• hyperkalaemia
• angiotensin II produced in response to ECF volume contraction

The effect of aldosterone needs to vary in that in some instances sodium will need to be retained without acting upon potassium while at other times potassium will need to be excreted while sodium balance is maintained:

• Reabsorb sodium but not excrete potassium
• Excrete potassium but do not reabsorb sodium

An excellent review of the actions of aldosterone: Connell JM, Davies E. The new biology of aldosterone. J. Endocrinol. 2005; 186: 1–20.

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