When Mr. Penzey's case study was analyzed, the initial tests performed on him indicated multiple findings. A mass was found during the CT scan, located on the adrenal gland; the adrenal gland is located on top of the kidneys, their function is to help in burning proteins and fats. This is how the adrenal gland keeps the blood pressure under control and regulates the normal flow of blood to the body (McLeod, 2008). There are mainly six major conditions that are associated when a mass is found in the adrenal glands. A condition called Paraganglioma also known as Para, and Pheochromocytoma also known as Pheo, these …show more content…
This system is known to be one of the longest systems of hormones, as it was discovered about 100 years ago. Renin is an enzyme protein in nature that flows through the kidneys while angiotensin is a hormone that circulates in the bloodstream and constricts the blood vessels. By causing a restriction in the blood vessels, this hormone can increase the blood pressure which ultimately overworks the heart and body (Sahay, & Sahay, 2012). Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal cortex, this hormone helps in regulating the blood pressure. Whenever there is a decrease in blood flow to the kidneys, this system is activated. The typical flow of these hormones is renin release angiotensin, which then releases …show more content…
Penzey lab results show a high level of sodium. The average level of sodium ranges between 136-244 mmol/L and his lab results indicated high levels of 150 mmol/L. When sodium is present in high amount in the bloodstream it is difficult for the kidney to filter out water (Wedro). Potassium salt helps by balancing the negative effects of salt on the body. When potassium levels are low the muscle cramp up and weakening of the muscles occurs, which is one of the symptoms shown in Mr. Penzey’s condition. Mr. Penzey also suffers from severe low levels of Renin hypertension (LREH) at about 0.4 while the average range is between 0.5 to 3.3 ng/mL/hr. LREH is a condition that is sensitive to salts. Mr. Penzey level of aldosterone is at 2-9 ng/dl while the average range is 21, this shows he is off track from the normal values. With the information about Mr. Penzey’s low level of potassium and high level of aldosterone, it is clear that his body will reabsorb the sodium causing an electrolyte imbalance that can potentially lead back to high blood pressure, muscle weakness and headaches. Despite Mr. Penzey’s normal pH level at 7.45, he is still in danger of suffering from alkalosis due to his electrolyte imbalance. (Gibbons, 2015). In addition, to analyze Mr. Penzey condition better he can also be tested for the stimulation test for adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), CT scan, electrolyte test and MRI (Sahay, & Sahay,