Which statement about unilateral adrenal hyperplasia in primary hyperaldosteronism is true?

Which statement about unilateral adrenal hyperplasia in primary hyperaldosteronism is true?

• A. It is the most common form
• B. It is rare
• C. It is common in men
• D. It is the only cause

Answer: (B)

Unilateral adrenal hyperplasia is a less common cause of primary hyperaldosteronism. Most cases arise from bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or from a unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma. Because one adrenal gland is rarely hyperactive enough to produce autonomous aldosterone without a tumor, unilateral hyperplasia is infrequent. Clinically, this distinction matters because unilateral disease can often be cured with adrenalectomy, while bilateral disease usually requires medical therapy. Therefore, the statement that it is rare is the best choice.

Unilateral adrenal hyperplasia is a less common cause of primary hyperaldosteronism. Most cases arise from bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or from a unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma. Because one adrenal gland is rarely hyperactive enough to produce autonomous aldosterone without a tumor, unilateral hyperplasia is infrequent. Clinically, this distinction matters because unilateral disease can often be cured with adrenalectomy, while bilateral disease usually requires medical therapy. Therefore, the statement that it is rare is the best choice.