What is the aldo to renin ratio in Conn Syndrome?

In Conn Syndrome, also known as primary hyperaldosteronism, the primary abnormality is the overproduction of aldosterone usually due to an adrenal adenoma or hyperplasia. This increased secretion of aldosterone leads to a high aldosterone level in the bloodstream.

Consequently, the renin level is suppressed as a response to the elevated blood volume and sodium levels, conditions that are typically associated with high aldosterone levels. This suppression occurs because renin secretion is inhibited by the increased blood pressure and fluid overload that result from excessive aldosterone.

The key point here is that in Conn Syndrome, since aldosterone levels are significantly elevated while renin levels are low, this creates a notably high aldosterone to renin ratio. This ratio serves as a crucial diagnostic marker in identifying primary hyperaldosteronism. Thus, it is understood that the ratio is high due to the disproportionate increase in aldosterone compared to the suppressed renin levels.