Background Only few studies, in small groups of patients, have evaluated large arteries alterations in primary aldosteronism(PA). In addition, the assessment of cardiac and vascular involvement has not been simultaneously performed.

Aim of the study was to evaluate cardiac, vascular and renal complications in patients with PA.

Patients and Methods: 70 patients with PA(age 49±6years,27 F) and 70 essential hypertensives (EH) matched for age, sex, BMI and BP, underwent laboratory examinations, cardiac and carotid ultrasound and PWV.

Results: no differences in age, sex, BMI, BP and HR were observed. Cholesterol was lower in PA (195±37 vs 215±33 mg/dl, p<0.05); no difference in tryglicerides, glucose and uric acid was observed. In PA eGFR(MDRD) was greater in comparison to EH(96±22 vs 89±17mL/min/1.73m2, p=0.05). LV mass index(LVMI) and relative wall thickness(RWT) were significantly greater in PA vs EH(LVMI 42±13 vs34±7 g/m2.7, p<0.001 and RWT 0.34±0.08 vs 0.31±0.04, p<0.001). At TDI Emvel was significantly lower, and Evel/Em vel was significantly higher in PA (9.5±2.9 vs 10.5±2.7, p<0.05 and 9.2±4.4 vs 7.6±2.7,p<0.05, respectively). No difference was observed in carotid prevalence of thickening or plaques and in IMT (Meanmax 1.02±0.25 vs 0.98±0.18, p ns,CBMMax 1.05±0.26 vs 1.01±0.16, p ns), as well as in PWV(10.8±2.1 vs 10.8±1.6 m/sec, p ns).

Conclusions: In this large group of patients with PA a significant increase in LVMI and concentric geometry, associated with a worse diastolic function were observed. Opposite to previous findings, no difference in aortic stiffness and carotid structure was observed.