Clinical Diagnosis · Endocrine System · Hard
Hyperaldosteronism
Meaning: Excess production of a salt-retaining adrenal hormone, causing high blood pressure and low potassium.
In practice: Resistant hypertension with unexplained low potassium prompted the GP to test for hyperaldosteronism.
Word parts
- hyper- means above or more than normal
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related clinical diagnosis words.
Which word means: A small, raised, solid skin lesion less than about one centimetre across.
Answer: Papule
Which word means: Enlargement of the small bean-shaped immune glands, such as those in the neck, armpit or groin, from infection, inflammation or cancer.
Answer: Lymphadenopathy
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