What is the Origin of Autonomous Aldosterone Secretion?

The term originates from a combination of the Greek word autos meaning "self" and nomos meaning "law," defining the autonomous or self-governing nature of the hormone release. Aldosterone is the name of the steroid hormone, and secretion refers to its release from the adrenal cortex. This terminology highlights the loss of homeostatic control over a vital regulatory hormone.

What is the Mechanism of Autonomous Aldosterone Secretion?

The primary mechanism involves intrinsic abnormalities, often genetic mutations or hyperplasia, within the adrenal cortex's zona glomerulosa cells. These cellular changes lead to the continuous activation of the aldosterone synthase enzyme, driving hormone synthesis irrespective of plasma renin activity. This unregulated output results in chronic aldosterone excess, promoting sodium retention, plasma volume expansion, and the development of resistant hypertension and cardiovascular risk.

Autonomous Aldosterone Secretion ∞ Area

Autonomous Aldosterone Secretion

Meaning

Autonomous Aldosterone Secretion (AAS) describes the pathological and unregulated production of the mineralocorticoid hormone aldosterone by the adrenal glands, independent of the usual physiological control mechanisms. Specifically, this secretion is not appropriately suppressed by volume expansion or the suppression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAAS). AAS is the core endocrinological feature underlying the diagnosis of Primary Aldosteronism, a significant cause of secondary hypertension.