Primary hyperaldosteronism in pregnancy.

A case is reported of a primigravid woman presenting in midgestation with severe hypertension caused by primary hyperaldosteronism. Symptomatic treatment with an aldosterone blocker, a peripheral vasodilator, and a combined alpha beta-blocker allowed pregnancy to continue to 36 weeks' gestation. Cesarean section for fetal distress resulted in delivery of a dysmature female infant who did well. Further postpartum studies confirmed the presumptive diagnosis made during pregnancy. An adenoma, localized in the right adrenal gland, was surgically removed.