Hyperkalaemia in diabetes mellitus—potential hazards of coexisting hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism

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Abstract
Summary: Two patients with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (Type I), developed severe, life-threatening hyperkalaemia, the first following treatment with spironolactone, the second during treatment for staphylococcal septicaemia when glucose-induced hyperkalaemia occurred. Investigations demonstrated co-existing hyporeininaemic hypoaldosteronism. Prompt recognition of this combined hormone-deficiency syndrome led to appropriate treatment and recovery. The biochemical features and clinical importance of hyporeninaemic hypoaldosteronism are discussed.