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Huang C, Chang LY, Sheu JY, Huang YT, Chen JY, Lai CF, Wu VC. Exploring the high prevalence, comorbidities, and indicators of mild autonomous cortisol secretion in primary aldosteronism: a cohort study and systematic review. Hypertens Res 2025; 48:1716-1729. [PMID: 40069399 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-025-02172-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2025] [Accepted: 02/23/2025] [Indexed: 05/08/2025]
Abstract
Emerging evidence has suggested a significant prevalence of mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) among patients diagnosed with primary aldosteronism (PA). However, MACS's clinical characteristics and implications in PA patients remain largely unexplored. To investigate the prevalence, comorbidities, and indicators of MACS in PA patients, we conducted a retrospective cohort study including 874 PA patients with dexamethasone suppression test results in the Taiwan Primary Aldosteronism Investigators (TAIPAI) cohort between February 2011 and February 2024. Additionally, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 studies, encompassing a total of 2882 PA patients (CRD42023486755). After including the TAIPAI cohort data in the meta-analysis, the prevalence of MACS among PA patients was 21.9% (95% confidence interval [C.I.]: 18.1, 26.2), with a negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (r = -0.028, P < 0.01). The characteristics associated with MACS in PA patients included older age (mean difference [MD] = 5.51 year, P < 0.01), higher plasma aldosterone concentration (MD = 5.36 ng/dL, P < 0.01), lower plasma renin activity (MD = -0.15 ng/mL/h, P < 0.01), lower eGFR (MD = -4.91 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.01), and larger adrenal tumor size (MD = 0.41 cm, P < 0.01). MACS was significantly associated with chronic kidney disease (odds ratio [OR] = 1.96, P < 0.01), diabetes mellitus (OR = 1.60, P = 0.04), and cardiovascular diseases (OR = 1.37, P = 0.02) among PA patients. The high prevalence and strong association of MACS with comorbidities underscore the importance of identifying it in PA patients. Clinical features such as advanced age, significant aldosterone-renin dysregulation, impaired kidney function, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and large adrenal tumors are indicators for MACS screening in PA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieh Huang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Yang Chang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Yuh Sheu
- Department of Urology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ta Huang
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Yi Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Health and Nutrition, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Fu Lai
- Renal Division, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Vin-Cent Wu
- Renal Division, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Primary Aldosteronism Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Lee BC, Chang CC, Kang VJW, Huang JZ, Lin YL, Chang YY, Tsai CH, Chen ZW, Liao CW, Pan CT, Wu VC, Hung CS, Chou CH, Lin YH. Autonomous cortisol secretion promotes vascular calcification in vivo and in vitro under hyperaldosteronism. Hypertens Res 2025; 48:366-377. [PMID: 39516366 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-024-01935-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
Autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS) is not uncommon in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA). However, the cardiovascular burden of ACS due to its dysregulated cortisol secretion remains poorly understood. Thus, we examined the effects of ACS on vascular calcification in a hyperaldosteronism environment in vitro and in vivo. A total of 339 patients with PA with adrenal incidentaloma and low-dose dexamethasone suppression test data (cutoff level: cortisol > 1.8 μg/dL) from a prospectively maintained database were enrolled; abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) scores were quantitatively estimated. Human aortic smooth muscle cells (HAOSMCs) were used as in vitro model of vascular calcification. In this study, 65 of the 339 patients with PA had ACS; 274 did not. Patients with PA/ACS had a higher AAC score (1171.0 ± 2434.0 vs. 489.5 ± 1085.3, P = 0.012) than patients without ACS. ACS was independently associated with AAC score (β = 0.139, P = 0.004) in multivariate analysis, and post-suppression cortisol level was significantly correlated with the AAC score (P = 0.004). In the HAOSMC model, co-treatment with cortisol synergistically stimulated alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition in a hyperaldosteronism environment. The stimulatory effect of cortisol was abolished by the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist eplerenone, but not glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone, indicating a MR-dependent mechanism. In conclusion, the presence of ACS is associated with heavier vascular calcification in patients with PA. Aldosterone and cortisol synergistically activate HAOSMC calcification via MR signaling, via a process that can be attenuated by eplerenone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Ching Lee
- Departments of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of National Taiwan University Hospital and Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-lin Branch, Douliu, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chin-Chen Chang
- Departments of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Victor Jing-Wei Kang
- Departments of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Jia-Zheng Huang
- Departments of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yu-Li Lin
- Department of Business Administration and Graduate School of Service Management, Chihlee University of Technology, New Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Yi-Yao Chang
- Departments of National Taiwan University Hospital and Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Cardiology Division of Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Cheng-Hsuan Tsai
- Departments of National Taiwan University Hospital and Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Zheng-Wei Chen
- Departments of National Taiwan University Hospital and Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-lin Branch, Douliu, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Che-Wei Liao
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, HsinChu, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chien-Ting Pan
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-lin Branch, Douliu, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Vin-Cent Wu
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of Primary Aldosteronism Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chi-Sheng Hung
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Departments of Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chia-Hung Chou
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Yen-Hung Lin
- Department of Business Administration and Graduate School of Service Management, Chihlee University of Technology, New Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC.
- Departments of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
- Departments of Primary Aldosteronism Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
- Departments of Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
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Jiang Y, Zhou L, Zhang C, Su T, Jiang L, Zhou W, Zhong X, Wu L, Wang W. The influence of cortisol co-secretion on clinical characteristics and postoperative outcomes in unilateral primary aldosteronism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1369582. [PMID: 38745957 PMCID: PMC11091262 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1369582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Context The prevalence of unilateral primary aldosteronism (UPA) with cortisol co-secretion varies geographically. Objective To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of UPA with cortisol co-secretion in a Chinese population. Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods We recruited 580 patients with UPA who underwent cosyntropin stimulation test (CST) after the 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) and retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics and postoperative outcomes of UPA with and without cortisol co-secretion. Results UPA with cortisol co-secretion (1 mg DST>1.8 ug/dL) was identified in 65 of 580 (11.2%) patients. These patients were characterized by older age, longer duration of hypertension, higher concentration of plasma aldosterone and midnight cortisol, lower adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), larger tumor diameter, and more history of diabetes mellitus. Cortisol and aldosterone levels were higher and DHEAS level was lower in UPA with cortisol co-secretion at 0-120 min after CST. Among 342 UPA patients with KCNJ5 gene sequencing and follow-up results, the complete clinical success rate was lower in UPA with cortisol co-secretion (33.3% vs. 56.4%, P<0.05); the complete biochemical success rate and KCNJ5 mutation did not differ between the two groups. Age, tumor size, and ACTH were independent predictors of UPA with cortisol co-secretion. Sex, BMI, duration of hypertension, KCNJ5 mutation, and cortisol co-secretion were independent predictors for complete clinical success in UPA after surgery. Conclusions UPA with cortisol co-secretion is not uncommon in China, but the clinical features were distinctly different from those without co-secretion. Cortisol co-secretion is an independent risk factor for incomplete clinical success after surgery in UPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lihua Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cui Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingwei Su
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiwei Zhou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Zhong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Luming Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiqing Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors, Shanghai Clinical Centre for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic diseases of Institute of Health Science, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine and Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Carroll RW, Corley B, Feltham J, Whitfield P, Park W, Howard R, Yssel M, Phillips I, Harper S, Yang J. The value of plasma metanephrine measurements during adrenal vein sampling. Endocr Connect 2024; 13:e230300. [PMID: 38055778 PMCID: PMC10831578 DOI: 10.1530/ec-23-0300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Objective The assessment of primary aldosteronism incorporates adrenal vein sampling (AVS) to lateralize aldosterone excess. Current adrenal vein sampling protocols rely on concurrent cortisol measurements to assess successful cannulation and lateralization and may be inaccurate in the setting of autonomous cortisol secretion. We aimed to compare the measurement of plasma cortisol and metanephrine concentrations to assess cannulation and lateralization during AVS. Design This is a diagnostic accuracy study in a tertiary referral endocrinology department. Methods Forty-one consecutive patients with confirmed primary aldosteronism undergoing AVS (49 procedures) were included. None had cortisol autonomy. The use of plasma metanephrine-based ratios were compared with standard cortisol-based ratios to assess cannulation and lateralization during ACTH-stimulated AVS. Results There was strong agreement between a cortisol selectivity index (SI) ≥5.0 and an adrenal vein (AV) to peripheral vein (PV) plasma metanephrine ratio (AVmet-PVmet) of ≥12.0 to indicate successful cannulation of the AV (n = 117, sensitivity 98%, specificity 89%, positive predictive value (PPV) 95%, negative predictive value (NPV) 94%). There was strong agreement between the standard cortisol-based SI and an AV plasma metanephrine-to-normetanephrine ratio (AVmet-AVnormet) of ≥2.0 to indicate successful cannulation (n = 117, sensitivity 93%, specificity 86%, PPV 94%, NPV 84%). There was strong agreement between the cortisol- or metanephrine-derived lateralization index (LI) > 4.0 for determining lateralization (n = 26, sensitivity 100%, specificity 94.1%, PPV 91.6%, NPV 100%). Conclusions Ratios incorporating plasma metanephrines provide comparable outcomes to standard cortisol-based measurements for interpretation of AVS. Further studies are required to assess the use of metanephrine-derived ratios in the context of confirmed cortisol autonomy. Significance statement Primary aldosteronism is a common cause of secondary hypertension, and adrenal vein sampling remains the gold standard test to assess lateralization. Cortisol-derived ratios to assess cannulation and lateralization may be affected by concurrent cortisol dysfunction, which is not uncommon in the context of primary aldosteronism. Our study showed comparable outcomes when using accepted cortisol-derived or metanephrine-derived ratios to determine cannulation and lateralization during adrenal vein sampling. Further research is required to validate these findings and to assess the use of metanephrine-derived ratios in the context of confirmed concurrent cortisol dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard W Carroll
- Endocrine, Diabetes, and Research Centre, Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand
| | - Brian Corley
- Endocrine, Diabetes, and Research Centre, Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Joe Feltham
- Department of Radiology, Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand
| | - Patricia Whitfield
- Endocrine, Diabetes, and Research Centre, Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Rowena Howard
- Diabetes and Endocrinology Service, Hutt Hospital, New Zealand
| | - Melissa Yssel
- Department of Biochemistry & Endocrinology, Awanui Labs, New Zealand
| | - Ian Phillips
- Department of Biochemistry, Awanui Labs, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Simon Harper
- Department of Surgery & Anaesethesia, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of General Surgery, Wellington Regional Hospital, New Zealand
| | - Jun Yang
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Chang YY, Lee BC, Chen ZW, Tsai CH, Chang CC, Liao CW, Pan CT, Peng KY, Chou CH, Lu CC, Wu VC, Hung CS, Lin YH, TAIPAI study group. Cardiovascular and metabolic characters of KCNJ5 somatic mutations in primary aldosteronism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1061704. [PMID: 36950676 PMCID: PMC10025475 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1061704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the leading cause of curable endocrine hypertension, which is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular and metabolic insults compared to essential hypertension. Aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) is a major cause of PA, which can be treated with adrenalectomy. Somatic mutations are the main pathogenesis of aldosterone overproduction in APA, of which KCNJ5 somatic mutations are most common, especially in Asian countries. This article aimed to review the literature on the impacts of KCNJ5 somatic mutations on systemic organ damage. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION PubMed literature research using keywords combination, including "aldosterone-producing adenoma," "somatic mutations," "KCNJ5," "organ damage," "cardiovascular," "diastolic function," "metabolic syndrome," "autonomous cortisol secretion," etc. RESULTS APA patients with KCNJ5 somatic mutations are generally younger, female, have higher aldosterone levels, lower potassium levels, larger tumor size, and higher hypertension cure rate after adrenalectomy. This review focuses on the cardiovascular and metabolic aspects of KCNJ5 somatic mutations in APA patients, including left ventricular remodeling and diastolic function, abdominal aortic thickness and calcification, arterial stiffness, metabolic syndrome, abdominal adipose tissue, and correlation with autonomous cortisol secretion. Furthermore, we discuss modalities to differentiate the types of mutations before surgery. CONCLUSION KCNJ5 somatic mutations in patients with APA had higher left ventricular mass (LVM), more impaired diastolic function, thicker aortic wall, lower incidence of metabolic syndrome, and possibly a lower incidence of concurrent autonomous cortisol secretion, but better improvement in LVM, diastolic function, arterial stiffness, and aortic wall thickness after adrenalectomy compared to patients without KCNJ5 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Yao Chang
- Cardiology Division of Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Ching Lee
- Department of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zheng-Wei Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, Yun-Lin, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hsuan Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Chen Chang
- Department of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Che-Wei Liao
- Department of Medicine, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ting Pan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, Yun-Lin, Taiwan
| | - Kang-Yung Peng
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Chou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chu Lu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Vin-Cent Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Sheng Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hung Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Yen-Hung Lin,
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Carsote M. The Entity of Connshing Syndrome: Primary Aldosteronism with Autonomous Cortisol Secretion. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12112772. [PMID: 36428832 PMCID: PMC9689802 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12112772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Connshing syndrome (CoSh) (adrenal-related synchronous aldosterone (A) and cortisol (C) excess) represents a distinct entity among PA (primary hyperaldosteronisms) named by W. Arlt et al. in 2017, but the condition has been studied for more than 4 decades. Within the last few years, this is one of the most dynamic topics in hormonally active adrenal lesions due to massive advances in steroids metabolomics, molecular genetics from CYP11B1/B2 immunostaining to genes constellations, as well as newly designated pathological categories according to the 2022 WHO classification. In gross, PA causes 4-10% of all high blood pressure (HBP) cases, and 20% of resistant HBP; subclinical Cushing syndrome (SCS) is identified in one-third of adrenal incidentalomas (AI), while CoSh accounts for 20-30% to 77% of PA subjects, depending on the tests used to confirm autonomous C secretion (ACS). The clinical picture overlaps with PA, hypercortisolemia being mild. ACS is suspected in PA if a more severe glucose and cardiovascular profile is identified, or there are larger tumours, ACS being an independent factor risk for kidney damage, and probably also for depression/anxiety and osteoporotic fractures. It seems that one-third of the PA-ACS group harbours mutations of C-related lines like PRKACA and GNAS. A novel approach means we should perform CYP11B2/CYP11B1 immunostaining; sometimes negative aldosteronoma for CYP11B1 is surrounded by micronodules or cell clusters with positive CYP11B1 to sustain the C excess. Pitfalls of hormonal assessments in CoSh include the index of suspicion (check for ACS in PA patients) and the interpretation of A/C ratio during adrenal venous sample. Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is the treatment of choice. Post-operative clinical remission rate is lower in CoSh than PA. The risk of clinically manifested adrenal insufficiency is low, but a synthetic ACTH stimulating testing might help to avoid unnecessary exposure to glucocorticoids therapy. Finally, postponing the choice of surgery may impair the outcome, having noted that long-term therapy with mineralocorticoids receptors antagonists might not act against excessive amounts of C. Awareness of CoSh improves management and overall prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Carsote
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy & C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 011683 Bucharest, Romania
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Gao H, Li L, Tian H. Two cases of aldosterone and cortisol producing adenoma with different histopathological features: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2022; 101:e30008. [PMID: 35960046 PMCID: PMC9371487 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000030008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Primary aldosteronism (PA), including aldosterone and cortisol producing adenoma (A/CPA), is the most common trigger of secondary hypertension. The prevalence of A/CPA may be higher than what we could recognize previously with similar studies, but only a few relevant immunohistochemical reports have confirmed this information. Collecting more clinical features and immunohistochemistry data may help us to understand A/CPA, which is very important for avoiding misdiagnosis and improving outcomes in patients with A/CPA. PATIENT CONCERNS Both individuals included in this study had hypertension for >10 years. Computed tomography scans revealed the presence of adrenal nodules 1 year ago in patient A and 10 months ago in patient B (based on the date of the final version of this report). The relevant clinical features support PA accompanied by subclinical Cushing syndrome. DIAGNOSIS Aldosterone and cortisol producing adenoma. INTERVENTIONS The adrenal adenoma on the affected side was removed and pathological examination and immunohistochemistry were performed. Both the patients received short-term hydrocortisone treatment. OUTCOMES The blood pressure of both patients improved after surgery. Cytochrome P450 (CYP)11B1, CYP11B2, parathyroid hormone receptor 1 (PTH1R), calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR), and vitamin D3 receptor (VD3R) were all positively expressed, but the histopathological features of the expression region differed. LESSONS The occurrence of A/CPA may be related to calcium metabolism disorders. For A/CPA, the diversity in immunohistochemistry suggests many uncertainties regarding the pathogenesis of the disease. A/CPA should be considered in new clinical and pathological classifications of PA to gain more attention from the medical community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjiao Gao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- *Correspondence: Haoming Tian, MD, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China (e-mail: )
| | - Li Li
- Institute of Clinical Pathology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haoming Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Haoming Tian, MD, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China (e-mail: )
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Tsai CH, Liao CW, Wu XM, Chen ZW, Pan CT, Chang YY, Lee BC, Shun CT, Wen WF, Chou CH, Wu VC, Hung CS, Lin YH. Autonomous cortisol secretion is associated with worse arterial stiffness and vascular fibrosis in primary aldosteronism: a cross-sectional study with follow-up data. Eur J Endocrinol 2022; 187:197-208. [PMID: 35551115 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-1157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The presence of autonomous cortisol secretion (ACS) in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) is common and potentially associated with poor outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between ACS and vascular remodeling in PA patients. DESIGN AND METHODS We prospectively enrolled 436 PA patients from October 2006 to November 2019. ACS (defined as a cortisol level >1.8 μg/dL after a 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test) was detected in 23% of the PA patients. Propensity score matching (PSM) with age, sex, systolic and diastolic blood pressure was performed. The brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) was examined at baseline and 1 year after targeted treatment. Small arteries of periadrenal fat in 46 patients were stained with Picro Sirus red to quantify the severity of vascular fibrosis. RESULTS After PSM, the PA patients with ACS had a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, higher plasma aldosterone concentration and higher aldosterone-to-renin ratio. The baseline mean baPWV was also significantly higher in the PA patients with ACS. After multivariable regression analysis, the presence of ACS was a significant predictor of worse baseline mean baPWV (β: 235.745, 95% CI: 59.602-411.888, P = 0.010). In addition, the PA patients with ACS had worse vascular fibrosis (fibrosis area: 25.6 ± 8.4%) compared to those without ACS (fibrosis area: 19.8 ± 7.7%, P = 0.020). After 1 year of PA treatment, baPWV significantly improved in both groups. CONCLUSION The presence of ACS in PA patients is associated with worse arterial stiffness and vascular remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Hsuan Tsai
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Jin-Shan Branch, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Che-Wei Liao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, National Taiwan University Cancer Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Xue-Ming Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Zheng-Wei Chen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, Yun-Lin, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Ting Pan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital Yun-Lin Branch, Yun-Lin, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yao Chang
- Cardiology Division of Cardiovascular Medical Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Ching Lee
- Department of Medical Imaging, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Tung Shun
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Fen Wen
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Hung Chou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Vin-Cent Wu
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Sheng Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Hung Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital and National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Cardiovascular Center, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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9
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Hu L, Ji W, Guo M, Yi T, Wang J, Bao M, Gao Y, Jin H, Lu D, Ma W, Han X, Li J, Yuan Z. Case Report: Primary Aldosteronism and Subclinical Cushing Syndrome in a 49-Year-Old Woman With Hypertension Plus Hypokalaemia. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:911333. [PMID: 35707125 PMCID: PMC9189279 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.911333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coexisting primary aldosteronism (PA) and subclinical Cushing's syndrome (SCS) caused by bilateral adrenocortical adenomas have occasionally been reported. Precise diagnosis and treatment of the disease pose a challenge to clinicians due to its atypical clinical manifestations and laboratory findings. Case Summary A 49-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital due to fatigue, increased nocturia and refractory hypertension. The patient had a history of severe left hydronephrosis 6 months prior. Laboratory examinations showed hypokalaemia (2.58 mmol/L) and high urine potassium (71 mmol/24 h). Adrenal computed tomography (CT) showed bilateral adrenal masses. Undetectable ACTH and unsuppressed plasma cortisol levels by dexamethasone indicated ACTH-independent Cushing's syndrome. Although the upright aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR) was 3.06 which did not exceed 3.7, elevated plasma aldosterone concentrations (PAC) with unsuppressed PAC after the captopril test still suggested PA. Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) without adrenocorticotropic hormone further revealed hypersecretion of aldosterone from the right side and no dominant side of cortisol secretion. A laparoscopic right adrenal tumor resection was performed. The pathological diagnosis was adrenocortical adenoma. After the operation, the supine and standing PAC were normalized; while the plasma cortisol levels postoperatively were still high and plasma renin was activated. The patient's postoperative serum potassium and 24-h urine potassium returned to normal without any pharmacological treatment. In addition, the patient's blood pressure was controlled normally with irbesartan alone. Conclusion Patients with refractory hypertension should be screened for the cause of secondary hypertension. AVS should be performed in patients in which PA is highly suspected to determine whether there is the option of surgical treatment. Moreover, patients with PA should be screened for hypercortisolism, which can contribute to a proper understanding of the AVS result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Hu
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjun Ji
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Meiyu Guo
- Department of Hematology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tieci Yi
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Minghui Bao
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yusi Gao
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Han Jin
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Difei Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Difei Lu
| | - Wei Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoning Han
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Xiaoning Han
| | - Jianping Li
- Department of Cardiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenfang Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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10
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Hu Z, Chen X, Shao Y, Luo FX, Chu SL, Wang JG. Hypertension with unilateral adrenal aldosterone and cortisol cosecreting adenoma: A case report. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich) 2021; 23:1987-1991. [PMID: 34657370 PMCID: PMC8630599 DOI: 10.1111/jch.14374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Here, we report a case of unilateral adrenal aldosterone and cortisol co-secreting adenoma. A 34-year-old man with a history of severe hypertension for one year was detected hypokalemia (2.42 mmol/L lowest) and unilateral adrenal mass in a size of 71 mm*63 mm. Measurements of plasma aldosterone concentration and plasma renin activity showed marked increases. Primary aldosteronism was diagnosed. To exclude adrenal malignancy, the function of zona fasciculate was evaluated, and 24-h urine free cortisol was found abnormal in a testing. Further examinations revealed that circadian rhythm of serum cortisol disappeared and 2 mg-dexamethasone suppression test was positive. The final diagnosis was secondary hypertension, primary aldosteronism and subclinical Cushing's syndrome. After unilateral adrenalectomy, his blood pressure was normalized and biochemical parameters in the normal range. In conclusion, in patients with a large aldosterone-producing adenoma, the function of zona fasciculate might have to be evaluated for the identification of aldosterone and cortisol co-secreting neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Hu
- Department of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Shao
- Department of Urology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang-Xiu Luo
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao-Li Chu
- Department of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ji-Guang Wang
- Department of Hypertension, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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11
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Zelinka T, Petrák O, Waldauf P, Zítek M, Holaj R, Forejtová L, Michalský D, Novák K, Dušková J, Springer D, Widimský J. Postoperative adrenal insufficiency in Conn's syndrome-does it occur frequently? J Hum Hypertens 2021; 36:510-516. [PMID: 34615973 DOI: 10.1038/s41371-021-00618-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most frequent form of endocrine hypertension. Recently, frequent clinically significant adrenal insufficiency after adrenalectomy in subjects with PA has been reported, which may make the early postsurgical management difficult. We retrospectively searched for possible adrenal insufficiency in subjects who underwent adrenalectomy for PA and have measured cortisol in the early postoperative course. We included subjects with confirmed diagnosis of PA who underwent either posture testing (blood draw at 06:00 and 08:00) and/or adrenal venous sampling (AVS) (blood draw between 08:00 and 09:00) and have also measured cortisol after surgery (cortisol measured approximately at 07:00). Cortisol was measured by immunoassay. In this study, we identified 150 subjects (age 48.5 ± 10.3 years) with available cortisol values in the early postoperative course (median [25th percentile, 75th percentile]) 6 [5,6] days. Postoperative cortisol values (551 ± 148 nmol/l) were normal and significantly higher, compared to preoperative standing cortisol values (404 ± 150 nmol/l; (P < 0.001) and AVS cortisol values (493 ± 198 nmol/l; P = 0.009), and did not significantly differ from preoperative supine cortisol values. Postsurgical cortisol values were not different among subjects with or without abnormal dexamethasone suppression test or elevated urinary free cortisol pre-surgery, and were significantly higher in subjects with abnormal diurnal cortisol variability compared with subjects with normal diurnal variability. No patient presented with adrenocortical crisis in the later follow-up. In conclusion, postoperative cortisol values did not indicate any suspicion of possible adrenal insufficiency. To exclude possible adrenal insufficiency, it may be sufficient to measure morning cortisol in the early postoperative course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Zelinka
- Center of Hypertension, 3rd Department of Medicine-Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Ondřej Petrák
- Center of Hypertension, 3rd Department of Medicine-Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Waldauf
- Department of Anesthesiology, 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Královské Vinohrady in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Matěj Zítek
- Center of Hypertension, 3rd Department of Medicine-Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Holaj
- Center of Hypertension, 3rd Department of Medicine-Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lubomíra Forejtová
- Department of Radiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - David Michalský
- 1st Department of Surgery, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Květoslav Novák
- Department of Urology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General Faculty Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslava Dušková
- Institute of Pathology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Drahomíra Springer
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Widimský
- Center of Hypertension, 3rd Department of Medicine-Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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12
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Marques-Sá J, Barbosa M, Fernandes V, Santos MJ. Nearly fatal hypokalaemia due to non-hypertensive primary hyperaldosteronism in the post partum. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/3/e240018. [PMID: 33753383 PMCID: PMC7986951 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-240018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A previously healthy postpartum 33-year-old woman was admitted at the emergency department after two episodes of syncope. In the waiting room, she collapsed, ventricular fibrillation was detected, and she was reanimated by electric cardioversion. At admission, she was conscient, with blood pressure of 102/74 mm Hg and heart rate of 78 bpm. In the laboratory workup, severe hypokalaemia was found (K+ 1.77 mEq/L). Abdominopelvic CT revealed a 27 mm nodule in the right adrenal gland. High aldosterone and low plasma renin levels were detected, and the diagnosis of primary hyperaldosteronism was made, although she never had hypertension. Posteriorly, a cosecretion of aldosterone and cortisol was found. Two months after admission, the patient remained stable with normal K+ levels under spironolactone and a right adrenalectomy was performed. The cure of primary hyperaldosteronism and a partial adrenal insufficiency were confirmed. K+ levels and blood pressure remained normal without treatment and 10 months after surgery hydrocortisone was suspended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vera Fernandes
- Endocrinology Department, Braga Hospital, Braga, Portugal
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