Causes of Hypokalemia - Differential Diagnosis Algorithm Defining the cause of hypokalemia starts by measuring urinary K level. If inappropriately increased, the existence of hypertension suggests either secondary or primary hyperaldosteronism. Clinicians should also look for excess glucocorticoids. • Skin and/or gastrointestinal K loss • Renal K loss • Hypomagnesemia-induced hypokalemia • Renal tubular acidosis (type 1 of 2), Ureterosigmoidostomy, Diabetic ketoacidosis • Vomiting, Nasogastric drainage, Post-hypercapnia • Diuretics, Bartter's syndrome, Gitelman's syndrome • Primary Hyperaldosteronism • Secondary Hyperaldosteronism: malignant HT, renovascular HT, Renin-secreting tumor • Pseudo-hyperaldosteronism: exogenous mineralocorticoids, glycyrrhizic acid, Liddle's syndrome, Congenital adrenal hyperplasia • Cushing's syndrome #hypokalemia #differential #diagnosis #algorithm #causes #nephrology #potassium
