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Ency. home > Disease > B > Bartter's syndrome

Bartter's syndrome   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment

Alternative names:

Urinary potassium wasting

Definition:

A group of symptoms and signs including enlargement of certain kidney cells, alkalosis associated with reduced potassium (hypokalemic alkalosis), and increased production of the hormone aldosterone (see the aldosterone test). There is no elevation of blood pressure (which usually occurs with kidney disease).

Causes and Risks

The exact cause of Bartter's Syndrome is not known. In some cases it is genetic. It is thought to be caused by a defect in the kidney's ability to reabsorb potassium. As a result, an excessive amount of potassium is urinated out of the body. This is also known as potassium wasting.

Ency. home > Disease > B > Bartter's syndrome

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