CONN'S SYNDROME

Overproduction of the hormone aldosterone by a tumor containing tissue like that in the outer portion (cortex) of the adrenal gland. The excess aldosterone (pronounced al-do-ster-one) results in low potassium levels (hypokalemia), underacidity of the body (alkalosis), muscle weakness, excess thirst (polydipsia), excess urination (polyuria), and high blood pressure (hypertension). Also called primary aldosteronism and hyperaldosteronism. Named after the American physician Jerome W. Conn.