Hypokalemic Alkalosis and Edema with Increased Desoxycorticosterone Excretion

Abstract

A case of hypovolemia, hypotension resistant to angiotensin II, hypokalemic alkalosis and increased urinary excretion of desoxycorticosterone is described. This syndrome has not been reported previously in man. Results of potassium and sodium balance studies and responses to adrenal inhibition and pituitary suppression in this patient suggest that the adrenal abnormality may be secondary to an underlying vascular disturbance. The hypokalemic alkalosis appears to have resulted from desoxycorticosterone excess in the presence of normal amounts of aldosterone.