Metabolic Acidosis, Hyperkalemia, and Renal Unresponsiveness to Aldosterone Syndrome: Response to Treatment with Low-Potassium Diet

Abstract

Gordon syndrome involves hyperkalemia, acidosis, and severe hypertension (HTN) with hypercalciuria, low renin and aldosterone levels. It is commonly observed in children and adolescents. Such patients respond successfully to sodium restriction and thiazide diuretics. In this article, we present three cases of metabolic acidosis, hyperkalemia, and renal unresponsiveness to aldosterone (MeHandRU Syndrome). All three patients did not have HTN or hypercalciuria and demonstrated normal renin and aldosterone levels. These patients did not respond to thiazide-type diuretic therapy and salt restriction. Two males (aged 55- and 62-year) and a female patient (aged 68-year) presented to the clinic with unexplained hyperkalemia (5.9 mEq/L, 5.9 mEq/L and 6.2 mEq/L, respectively). On physical examination, blood pressure (BP) was found to be normal (<140/90 mm Hg). Over the counter potassium supplement, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, potassium sparing diuretic use, as well as hyporeninemic hypoaldosteronism states such as diabetes mellitus were excluded. Plasma renin and aldosterone levels were normal. All three patients had low transtubular potassium gradient, despite high serum potassium levels. None of the patients reported a family history of hyperkalemia or kidney failure. All failed to demonstrate a response to hydrochlorothiazide and salt restriction. After careful consideration, strict low potassium diet (<2 g/day) was initiated in consultation with the dietician. Diuretic therapy was discontinued while BP remained within normal range (<140/90 mm Hg). At eight weeks, all three patients demonstrated normalization of potassium and correction of acidosis. At follow-up of six months, all patients are maintaining a normal potassium level. We suggest that potassium restriction can be successful in patients presenting with MeHandRU syndrome.