Conn's syndrome is best described as:

• A. Autoimmune destruction of beta cells
• B. Liver failure
• C. Elevated cortisol
• D. Overproduction of aldosterone causing weakness, cramps, and convulsions

Answer: (D)

Conn’s syndrome is primary hyperaldosteronism—the adrenal glands produce too much aldosterone. Aldosterone tells the kidneys to reabsorb sodium and excrete potassium (and hydrogen ions) in the distal tubules. That excess aldosterone leads to higher blood pressure from sodium and water retention and, importantly for this question, low potassium in the blood (hypokalemia). Hypokalemia can cause muscle weakness, cramps, and in more severe cases convulsions, which matches the listed symptoms.

The other options point to different conditions: autoimmune destruction of beta cells is type 1 diabetes, liver failure is a liver problem, and elevated cortisol is Cushing’s syndrome. None of these describe excessive aldosterone production.