SNP Shot: Genomic Insights

An aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) is a benign tumor that forms in one of the adrenal glands, small glands located atop each kidney that produce hormones. Typically, only one adrenal gland develops a single tumor. This tumor secretes excessive amounts of the hormone aldosterone, leading to a condition called primary hyperaldosteronism. Aldosterone plays a crucial role in regulating fluid balance and blood pressure by controlling salt retention in the kidneys. When an APA causes overproduction of aldosterone, the kidneys retain too much salt, resulting in elevated fluid levels and high blood pressure (hypertension). Consequently, individuals with an APA are at higher risk for serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat).

Inheritance:

Aldosterone-producing adenomas are usually not passed down through families. Instead, they arise from a new genetic change (mutation) in cells within the adrenal gland. This mutation happens after fertilization and only affects the cells in the developing tumor; these are referred to as somatic mutations.