Shock new scan discovers hidden cause of hypertension... as experts reveal how it could help millions suffering from high-blood pressure
A first-of-its-kind kind scan could help millions of people suffering from hard-to-treat high blood pressure, research has revealed.
Experts at University College London have identified a hidden cause of hypertension which current testing does not identify, and hope their findings could lead to new treatment options.
Around a quarter of the 14 million people with high blood pressure in the UK are thought to have a problem with their adrenal glands producing too much of the hormone aldosterone.
It regulates levels of salt in the body, and experts say it is a hidden cause of high blood pressure that is not currently diagnosed.
Over-production of aldosterone can result in primary aldosteronism, which increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems.
But lower levels can lead to high blood pressure.
Measuring aldosterone currently requires two blood tests and a catheter into the groin.
As a result, the test is offered at only a select number of hospitals, with experts saying thousands of patients are missing out on a critical diagnosis.
Experts at University College London have identified a hidden cause of hypertension which current testing does not identify (stock image)
Professor Bryan Williams
In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the researchers at UCL were able to pinpoint the source of over-production of aldosterone for the first time.
This was achieved with a 3D scan of the body after the patient was injected with a newly designed radioactive tracer, which precisely identifies aldosterone-producing enzymes.
Professor Bryan Williams, clinical lead for the study, said the innovation 'is going to transform the diagnosis of aldosterone excess' and 'enable us to provide better targeted treatment'.
The team is now embarking on a phase two clinical trial to gather sufficient data for the test to be approved for routine use in the NHS.
