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Pseudohyperaldosteronism, Liquorice, and Hypertension

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Date 2008 Feb 8
PMID 18256580
Citations 22
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Abstract

Consumption of large quantities of liquorice can cause hypokalemia and hypertension. These effects are associated with increased cortisol-mediated activation of renal mineralocorticoid receptors and hypoaldosteronism. The authors describe a patient with long-standing hypokalemia and uncontrolled hypertension related to excessive ingestion of liquorice. The case highlights the importance of obtaining a detailed dietary history, especially considering the increasing use of liquorice-containing foods, teas, and herbal products. The authors also discuss secondary causes of hypertension, focusing on pseudohyperaldosteronism.

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