Relation of plasma aldosterone concentration to diuretic treatment in patients with severe heart disease.

To assess the relation of hyperaldosteronism and potassium depletion to the intensity of diuretic therapy we have measured plasma aldosterone by radioimmunoassay and total exchangeable potassium by radioisotope dilution in 24 patients when they were stable at the end of their preparation for cardiac operation. Some patients required intensive frusemide therapy to reach an optimal state for operation and many showed hyperaldosteronism. Plasma...