PLASMA LEVELS OF ATRIAL NATRIURETIC PEPTIDE IN MAN IN PRIMARY ALDOSTERONISM, IN GORDON'S SYNDROME AND IN BARTTER'S SYNDROME

Plasma levels of ANP were measured in normal subjects and in three conditions associated with disturbed volume homeostasis. Levels of ANP were appropriately raised in seven patients with primary aldosteronism, and fell to normal following removal of an aldosterone-producing adenoma in six and dexamethasone treatment in one patient with glucocorticoid-suppressible hyperaldosteronism. The level of ANP in one patient with Gordon's syndrome (a condition associated with plasma volume expansion) was lower than in the patients with primary aldosteronism, both before and after saline infusion. This is consistent with reduced ANP responsiveness in this condition. responsiveness in this condition. Levels of ANP were inappropriately elevated in three patients with Bartter's syndrome (a condition with plasma volume contraction) and rose further during saline infusion. This is consistent with primary hypersecretion of ANP.