Pseudohyperaldosteronism

Pseudohyperaldosteronism is a condition caused by the chronic excessive ingestion of licorice. Licorice inhibits the 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II () enzyme resulting in inappropriate stimulation of the mineralocorticoid receptor by cortisol.

This condition is characterized by hypertension, kaliuresis and reduced plasma renin.

References

1: Armanini D, Calo L, Semplicini A. Pseudohyperaldosteronism: pathogenetic mechanisms. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci. Jun;40(3):295-335, 2003

2: Takeuchi K, Abe K, Sato M, Yasujima M, Omata K, Murakami O, Yoshinaga K. Plasma aldosterone level in a female case of pseudohyperaldosteronism (Liddle's syndrome). Endocrinol Jpn. Feb;36(1):167-73, 1989