Mitsuhide NaruseProf. Japan

Mitsuhide Naruse, MD, PhD Director, Endocrine Center/ Clinical Research Center, Takeda General Hospital, Kyoto, Japan Visiting Research Manager, Kyoto Medical Center (KMC), National Hospital Organization (NHO), Japan ◆Education/ Academic Positions ・ 1975 Graduated, Tohoku University School of Medicine ・ 1980 Research Associate, Dept. of Biochemistry (Dr. Inagami T), Vanderbilt Univ. (US) ・ 1995 Associate Prof., Dept. of Medicine, Tokyo Women’s Medical University ・ 2003 Chief, Division of Endocrinology, Clinical Res. Institute, NHO ・ 2011 Visiting Prof., Peking Union Medical College Hospital (China) ・ 2012 Vice-Director, Clinical Res. Institute for Endocrinology and Metabolism, KMC ・ 2019 Current position ◆Academic/Social Activities ・ Chair, Taskforce of Clinical Guideline of PPGL, Japan Endo. Soc. (2010, 2012, 2018) ・ Chair, Taskforce of Clinical Guideline of Primary Aldosteronism, Japan Endo. Soc. (2016, 2021) ・ Member, Taskforce of PPGL Clinical Guideline, Endocrine Soc. (US) (2014) ・ President, 14th Japan Endocrine Pathol. Meeting (2010) ・ President, 4th International Symposium of Pheochromocytoma (2014) ・ President, 1st East Asia Symposium of Rare Adrenal Diseases (2017) ・ Chairman, Japan Endocrine Pathology ・ Advisor, Taskforce of PPGL Clinical Guideline, Japan Endo. Soc.(2025) ・ Honorary Member, Japan Endo. Soc. ・ Scientific Board member of the European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors (ENS@T) ◆Principal Investigator (PI) ・ Japan Pheochromocytoma Study (PHEO-J), Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare(2012-) ・ Japan Primary Aldosteronism Study (JPAS), AMED (2015-2018) ・ Primary Hyperaldosteronism in Japan (PHAS-J1, J2, J3), National Hosp. Organization ・ Japan Rare Adrenal Diseases Study (JRAS), AMED (2018-2021) ・ AVSTAT, SCOT, LAVS, EC-PASC, RAPA, PASC-II of ENS@T projects (2019-) ◆Awards ・ Tokyo Women’s Medical University/ Japan Endocrine Society/ Japan Society of Hypertension/ Japan Endocrine Pathology ◆Publications/ Presentation ・ 340 (English) & 1000 (Japan)/ 360 (International) & 1300 (Japan)

20 MARCH

Time	Session

13:50 15:20	[Symposium] Adrenal (1) Update in Primary Aldosteronism Feng-Hsuan LiuTaiwan Moderator Mitsuhide NaruseJapan Moderator Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is linked to significantly greater cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than essential hypertension, yet it offers a more favorable prognosis when appropriately treated. Early detection and targeted therapy are therefore essential for achieving optimal long-term outcomes and preserving quality of life. Since the release of the Endocrine Society’s guidelines in 2010, several countries—including Japan—have developed national recommendations (e.g., Endocrine Journal, 2021). This reflects growing awareness and research momentum, with over 3,500 publications in the past decade. In Japan, we have established a national PA registry and conducted multicenter studies under the Japan Primary Aldosteronism Study (JPAS), supported by AMED, resulting in more than 40 publications as Japan-originated evidence. Diagnostic protocols have become increasingly standardized, encompassing initial screening, confirmatory testing, subtype classification via adrenal venous sampling (AVS), and tailored treatment—mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists for bilateral PA and adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. The integration of PA screening into routine hypertension care, alongside the standardization of diagnostic methods, has led to substantial improvements in clinical practice. However, key challenges remain. These include variability in assay methods (e.g., PRA vs. ARC for renin; CLEIA vs. RIA for aldosterone), which affects diagnostic thresholds; uncertainty regarding optimal cutoffs for screening and confirmatory tests; lack of consensus on AVS protocols (with or without cosyntropin); and ongoing debates over the role of non-invasive imaging and advanced surgical approaches (laparoscopic vs. robot-assisted adrenalectomy). These unresolved issues warrant evaluation through a cost-effectiveness lens. As PA diagnostics become increasingly integrated into hypertension management, a fundamental question emerges: How far should we go in diagnosing PA? This presentation will provide an updated overview of clinical practice and address these critical challenges in PA management.Do We Still Need Confirmatory Testing? 2026 Update in Primary Aldosteronism Hirotaka ShibataJapan Speaker 2026 Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the most prevalent causes for secondary hypertension. Early diagnosis and treatment are mandatory, because patients with PA present markedly higher morbidity of cardiovascular diseases than those with essential hypertension whose blood pressure levels are equally managed. A recently published Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline of PA emphasizes several points. First, screening for PA with serum/plasma aldosterone concentration and plasma renin (concentration or activity) is recommended in all individuals with hypertension. Second, in individuals who screen positive for PA, aldosterone suppression testing is suggested when screening results suggest an intermediate probability for lateralizing PA, but not all cases. Third, in individuals with PA, medical therapy or surgical therapy with the choice of therapy based on lateralization of aldosterone hypersecretion and candidacy for surgery. Fourth, in individuals with PA considering surgery, adrenal lateralization with CT scanning and adrenal venous sampling prior to deciding the treatment approach is suggested. Fifth, in individuals with PA receiving PA-specific medical therapy, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are suggested as the dose is titrated by monitoring potassium, renal function, renin (concentration or activity) and blood pressure response during follow-up. We should be aware that diversity exists with respect to aldosterone assays, cut-off values for screening and aldosterone suppression tests, AVS standardization issues, and choice of MRAs depending on countries. Diagnosis and Management of Adrenal InsufficiencyThe diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency presents major clinical challenges. It is often unrecognized, which can lead to adrenal crisis and, if not identified and treated, death. There is a lack of understanding on who is at risk of adrenal insufficiency, how to test for it, and how to manage a life threatening adrenal crisis promptly. While primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency can be regarded as rare conditions, glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency might be quite common. One should consider glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome that may occur during glucocorticoid taper. Patient education in raising awareness of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome, such as fatigue and reduced appetite, is important when tapering glucocorticoid doses. The symptoms of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome may resemble adrenal insufficiency, but HPA axis is normally functional. The degree and persistence of adrenal suppression after cessation of glucocorticoid therapy are dependent on overall exposure and recovery of adrenal function varies greatly among individuals. Upcoming ICE2026/JES2026: Enlightened Endocrinology in Unprecedented TimesWe are pleased to announce that the 22nd International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE2026) and the 99th Annual Congress of the Japan Endocrine Society (JES2026) will be held together at the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto) over five days from June 2 (Tue) to 6 (Sat), 2026 (ICE2026/JES2026). The International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE) is held every two years, and after 1988 and 2010, this will be the third time that the Congress will be held in Japan. The Japan Endocrine Society (JES) has been actively involved in the International Society of Endocrinology (ISE) since its establishment, and as the JES will celebrate its 100th anniversary in fiscal year 2026, hosting the congress in Japan will be an especially valuable opportunity for JES members. The theme of ICE2026/JES2026 is: Enlightened Endocrinology in Unprecedented Times. Globally, we are entering an unprecedented era, including digitalization, which has been rapidly accelerated by the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic; a super-aging society, which is mainly faced by developed countries; and extreme weather events, as exemplified by global warming. In the midst of these unprecedented times, we will gather in Kyoto - the birthplace of the Japan Endocrine Society - to discuss the new century of clinical and basic research in various fields of endocrinology. Participants from all over the world are encouraged to present cutting-edge science from their respective countries, and through active discussions, we hope that you will experience the “Enlightened Endocrinology” of endocrinology in this unprecedented era. In June, flowers bloom profusely at shrines and temples in Kyoto with the blessings of water, and shrine gardens and hydrangea gardens are open to the public. We look forward to welcoming participants from all over the world to Kyoto - the ancient capital of Japan - and discussing the future of endocrinology! Personalizing Hypertension Treatment through Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone Physiology: Are We There Yet? Edith ChowHong Kong, China Speaker Personalizing Hypertension Treatment through Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone Physiology: Are We There Yet?Hypertension is the leading cardiovascular risk factor accounting for the global burden of cardiovascular disease and death. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system takes a crucial role as the regulator in maintaining the body’s electrolyte homeostasis. RAAS overactivity is a key pathophysiological mechanism in hypertension. Dysregulation of the RAAS is closely tied to development of hypertension. Primary aldosteronism is a disorder characterised by renin-independent aldosterone excess, manifesting as hypertension with greater risk of end-organ damage compared to individuals with essential hypertension. Recent guidelines for hypertension and primary aldosteronism have uniformly advocated for an expanded screening strategy for primary aldosteronism to improve awareness and detection of this treatable secondary cause of hypertension. Traditionally, screening for primary aldosteronism has relied on the conception that it is a dichotomous condition. However, increasing evidence have suggested that renin and aldosterone abnormalities may exist on a continuum of clinical severity. In individuals with elevated blood pressure and family history of hypertension, higher levels of aldosterone are associated with greater risks of incident hypertension. Among normotensive individuals, the association between high aldosterone and incident hypertension were only evident among those with a suppressed renin, suggesting a phenotype of subclinical aldosterone excess. On the other hand, among individuals with resistant hypertension, targeting RAAS overactivity with mineralocorticoid antagonists have demonstrated superior blood pressure reduction compared to beta-blockers or alpha-blockers, especially in those with lower renin levels. With the development of novel treatments for hypertension that target RAAS, including aldosterone synthase inhibitors and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid inhibitors, there is growing interest in the role of RAAS hormones or metabolites as biomarkers to guide diagnosis, prognostication and management of hypertension. Building upon this foundation, this talk will explore the potential role of aldosterone, renin and their metabolites as biomarkers in diagnosing and treating individuals with hypertension. From Taiwan to the World: The TAIPAI Journey Transforming Primary Aldosteronism Vincent WuTaiwan Speaker From Taiwan to the World: The TAIPAI Journey Transforming Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is an increasingly recognized cause of secondary hypertension, affecting an estimated 5%-15% of hypertensive patients. This condition, once thought to be rare, is now understood to be a relatively common contributor to high blood pressure, particularly in cases resistant to standard antihypertensive therapies. PA arises primarily from either bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or an aldosterone-producing adenoma. The pathophysiology of PA is characterized by excessive and autonomous secretion of aldosterone, an adrenal hormone that plays a critical role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Diagnosing PA involves a multi-step process, beginning with screening tests to identify at-risk individuals, followed by confirmatory tests, and finally, subtype differentiation to determine the specific cause of the condition. Screening is especially recommended for patients who present with certain risk factors, such as resistant hypertension, unexplained hypokalemia, or an onset of hypertension at a young age (under 40 years). Family history of PA, early signs of target organ damage, the presence of an adrenal incidentaloma, obstructive sleep apnea, unexplained atrial fibrillation, and psychosomatic symptoms are also significant indicators warranting screening. Additionally, patients with hypertension but no other comorbidities should be evaluated for PA, as it could be the underlying cause. PA does not occur in isolation; it is often found to coexist with Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion (MACS). This co-occurrence presents a more complex clinical picture, as MACS can further aggravate the cardio-renal-vascular complications already associated with PA. Moreover, it can contribute to abnormalities in glucose metabolism, increasing the risk of diabetes and other metabolic disorders. One of the key challenges in the diagnosis and management of PA, particularly when MACS is present, lies in accurately interpreting the aldosterone-to-cortisol ratios during adrenal venous sampling, a critical step in subtype differentiation. 201BC
16:30 17:10	Plenary 2 Vincent WuTaiwan Moderator From Taiwan to the World: The TAIPAI Journey Transforming Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is an increasingly recognized cause of secondary hypertension, affecting an estimated 5%-15% of hypertensive patients. This condition, once thought to be rare, is now understood to be a relatively common contributor to high blood pressure, particularly in cases resistant to standard antihypertensive therapies. PA arises primarily from either bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or an aldosterone-producing adenoma. The pathophysiology of PA is characterized by excessive and autonomous secretion of aldosterone, an adrenal hormone that plays a critical role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Diagnosing PA involves a multi-step process, beginning with screening tests to identify at-risk individuals, followed by confirmatory tests, and finally, subtype differentiation to determine the specific cause of the condition. Screening is especially recommended for patients who present with certain risk factors, such as resistant hypertension, unexplained hypokalemia, or an onset of hypertension at a young age (under 40 years). Family history of PA, early signs of target organ damage, the presence of an adrenal incidentaloma, obstructive sleep apnea, unexplained atrial fibrillation, and psychosomatic symptoms are also significant indicators warranting screening. Additionally, patients with hypertension but no other comorbidities should be evaluated for PA, as it could be the underlying cause. PA does not occur in isolation; it is often found to coexist with Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion (MACS). This co-occurrence presents a more complex clinical picture, as MACS can further aggravate the cardio-renal-vascular complications already associated with PA. Moreover, it can contribute to abnormalities in glucose metabolism, increasing the risk of diabetes and other metabolic disorders. One of the key challenges in the diagnosis and management of PA, particularly when MACS is present, lies in accurately interpreting the aldosterone-to-cortisol ratios during adrenal venous sampling, a critical step in subtype differentiation. Update in Primary Aldosteronism Mitsuhide NaruseJapan Speaker Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is linked to significantly greater cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than essential hypertension, yet it offers a more favorable prognosis when appropriately treated. Early detection and targeted therapy are therefore essential for achieving optimal long-term outcomes and preserving quality of life. Since the release of the Endocrine Society’s guidelines in 2010, several countries—including Japan—have developed national recommendations (e.g., Endocrine Journal, 2021). This reflects growing awareness and research momentum, with over 3,500 publications in the past decade. In Japan, we have established a national PA registry and conducted multicenter studies under the Japan Primary Aldosteronism Study (JPAS), supported by AMED, resulting in more than 40 publications as Japan-originated evidence. Diagnostic protocols have become increasingly standardized, encompassing initial screening, confirmatory testing, subtype classification via adrenal venous sampling (AVS), and tailored treatment—mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists for bilateral PA and adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. The integration of PA screening into routine hypertension care, alongside the standardization of diagnostic methods, has led to substantial improvements in clinical practice. However, key challenges remain. These include variability in assay methods (e.g., PRA vs. ARC for renin; CLEIA vs. RIA for aldosterone), which affects diagnostic thresholds; uncertainty regarding optimal cutoffs for screening and confirmatory tests; lack of consensus on AVS protocols (with or without cosyntropin); and ongoing debates over the role of non-invasive imaging and advanced surgical approaches (laparoscopic vs. robot-assisted adrenalectomy). These unresolved issues warrant evaluation through a cost-effectiveness lens. As PA diagnostics become increasingly integrated into hypertension management, a fundamental question emerges: How far should we go in diagnosing PA? This presentation will provide an updated overview of clinical practice and address these critical challenges in PA management.Do We Still Need Confirmatory Testing?

21 MARCH

Time	Session

13:30 15:00	[ANAH Joint Symposium] Primary Aldosteronism in 2026 Practical Updates for Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment Edith ChowHong Kong, China Moderator Personalizing Hypertension Treatment through Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone Physiology: Are We There Yet?Hypertension is the leading cardiovascular risk factor accounting for the global burden of cardiovascular disease and death. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system takes a crucial role as the regulator in maintaining the body’s electrolyte homeostasis. RAAS overactivity is a key pathophysiological mechanism in hypertension. Dysregulation of the RAAS is closely tied to development of hypertension. Primary aldosteronism is a disorder characterised by renin-independent aldosterone excess, manifesting as hypertension with greater risk of end-organ damage compared to individuals with essential hypertension. Recent guidelines for hypertension and primary aldosteronism have uniformly advocated for an expanded screening strategy for primary aldosteronism to improve awareness and detection of this treatable secondary cause of hypertension. Traditionally, screening for primary aldosteronism has relied on the conception that it is a dichotomous condition. However, increasing evidence have suggested that renin and aldosterone abnormalities may exist on a continuum of clinical severity. In individuals with elevated blood pressure and family history of hypertension, higher levels of aldosterone are associated with greater risks of incident hypertension. Among normotensive individuals, the association between high aldosterone and incident hypertension were only evident among those with a suppressed renin, suggesting a phenotype of subclinical aldosterone excess. On the other hand, among individuals with resistant hypertension, targeting RAAS overactivity with mineralocorticoid antagonists have demonstrated superior blood pressure reduction compared to beta-blockers or alpha-blockers, especially in those with lower renin levels. With the development of novel treatments for hypertension that target RAAS, including aldosterone synthase inhibitors and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid inhibitors, there is growing interest in the role of RAAS hormones or metabolites as biomarkers to guide diagnosis, prognostication and management of hypertension. Building upon this foundation, this talk will explore the potential role of aldosterone, renin and their metabolites as biomarkers in diagnosing and treating individuals with hypertension. Hirotaka ShibataJapan Moderator 2026 Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the most prevalent causes for secondary hypertension. Early diagnosis and treatment are mandatory, because patients with PA present markedly higher morbidity of cardiovascular diseases than those with essential hypertension whose blood pressure levels are equally managed. A recently published Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline of PA emphasizes several points. First, screening for PA with serum/plasma aldosterone concentration and plasma renin (concentration or activity) is recommended in all individuals with hypertension. Second, in individuals who screen positive for PA, aldosterone suppression testing is suggested when screening results suggest an intermediate probability for lateralizing PA, but not all cases. Third, in individuals with PA, medical therapy or surgical therapy with the choice of therapy based on lateralization of aldosterone hypersecretion and candidacy for surgery. Fourth, in individuals with PA considering surgery, adrenal lateralization with CT scanning and adrenal venous sampling prior to deciding the treatment approach is suggested. Fifth, in individuals with PA receiving PA-specific medical therapy, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are suggested as the dose is titrated by monitoring potassium, renal function, renin (concentration or activity) and blood pressure response during follow-up. We should be aware that diversity exists with respect to aldosterone assays, cut-off values for screening and aldosterone suppression tests, AVS standardization issues, and choice of MRAs depending on countries. Diagnosis and Management of Adrenal InsufficiencyThe diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency presents major clinical challenges. It is often unrecognized, which can lead to adrenal crisis and, if not identified and treated, death. There is a lack of understanding on who is at risk of adrenal insufficiency, how to test for it, and how to manage a life threatening adrenal crisis promptly. While primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency can be regarded as rare conditions, glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency might be quite common. One should consider glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome that may occur during glucocorticoid taper. Patient education in raising awareness of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome, such as fatigue and reduced appetite, is important when tapering glucocorticoid doses. The symptoms of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome may resemble adrenal insufficiency, but HPA axis is normally functional. The degree and persistence of adrenal suppression after cessation of glucocorticoid therapy are dependent on overall exposure and recovery of adrenal function varies greatly among individuals. Upcoming ICE2026/JES2026: Enlightened Endocrinology in Unprecedented TimesWe are pleased to announce that the 22nd International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE2026) and the 99th Annual Congress of the Japan Endocrine Society (JES2026) will be held together at the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto) over five days from June 2 (Tue) to 6 (Sat), 2026 (ICE2026/JES2026). The International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE) is held every two years, and after 1988 and 2010, this will be the third time that the Congress will be held in Japan. The Japan Endocrine Society (JES) has been actively involved in the International Society of Endocrinology (ISE) since its establishment, and as the JES will celebrate its 100th anniversary in fiscal year 2026, hosting the congress in Japan will be an especially valuable opportunity for JES members. The theme of ICE2026/JES2026 is: Enlightened Endocrinology in Unprecedented Times. Globally, we are entering an unprecedented era, including digitalization, which has been rapidly accelerated by the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic; a super-aging society, which is mainly faced by developed countries; and extreme weather events, as exemplified by global warming. In the midst of these unprecedented times, we will gather in Kyoto - the birthplace of the Japan Endocrine Society - to discuss the new century of clinical and basic research in various fields of endocrinology. Participants from all over the world are encouraged to present cutting-edge science from their respective countries, and through active discussions, we hope that you will experience the “Enlightened Endocrinology” of endocrinology in this unprecedented era. In June, flowers bloom profusely at shrines and temples in Kyoto with the blessings of water, and shrine gardens and hydrangea gardens are open to the public. We look forward to welcoming participants from all over the world to Kyoto - the ancient capital of Japan - and discussing the future of endocrinology! Do We Still Need Confirmatory Testing? Mitsuhide NaruseJapan Speaker Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is linked to significantly greater cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than essential hypertension, yet it offers a more favorable prognosis when appropriately treated. Early detection and targeted therapy are therefore essential for achieving optimal long-term outcomes and preserving quality of life. Since the release of the Endocrine Society’s guidelines in 2010, several countries—including Japan—have developed national recommendations (e.g., Endocrine Journal, 2021). This reflects growing awareness and research momentum, with over 3,500 publications in the past decade. In Japan, we have established a national PA registry and conducted multicenter studies under the Japan Primary Aldosteronism Study (JPAS), supported by AMED, resulting in more than 40 publications as Japan-originated evidence. Diagnostic protocols have become increasingly standardized, encompassing initial screening, confirmatory testing, subtype classification via adrenal venous sampling (AVS), and tailored treatment—mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists for bilateral PA and adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. The integration of PA screening into routine hypertension care, alongside the standardization of diagnostic methods, has led to substantial improvements in clinical practice. However, key challenges remain. These include variability in assay methods (e.g., PRA vs. ARC for renin; CLEIA vs. RIA for aldosterone), which affects diagnostic thresholds; uncertainty regarding optimal cutoffs for screening and confirmatory tests; lack of consensus on AVS protocols (with or without cosyntropin); and ongoing debates over the role of non-invasive imaging and advanced surgical approaches (laparoscopic vs. robot-assisted adrenalectomy). These unresolved issues warrant evaluation through a cost-effectiveness lens. As PA diagnostics become increasingly integrated into hypertension management, a fundamental question emerges: How far should we go in diagnosing PA? This presentation will provide an updated overview of clinical practice and address these critical challenges in PA management.Do We Still Need Confirmatory Testing? Skipping Confirmatory Tests: Modern Simplified Pathways Ada E. D. TeoSingapore Speaker Modern Simplified Pathways for PA: From Screening to LocalizationBy introducing emerging strategies to enable more accurate non-invasive localization, this session aims to help clinicians reduce reliance on adrenal vein sampling and streamline precision diagnosis in primary aldosteronism. From ARR to Subtyping: Practical Strategies for Streamlining Testing, Imaging, and AVS in Daily Practice Wasita Warachit ParksookThailand Speaker From ARR to Subtyping: Practical Strategies for Streamlining Testing, Imaging, and AVS in Daily PracticeBy integrating guideline recommendations with current evidence and practical clinical reasoning, this session aims to help clinicians navigate the diagnostic pathway from ARR screening to subtype classification more efficiently, reduce unnecessary testing, and optimize individualized treatment strategies for patients with primary aldosteronism. Medical vs Surgical Treatment in 2026: Optimizing MRA Therapy, ENaC Strategies, and Surgical Decision-Making Cheng Hsuan TsaiTaiwan Speaker Medical vs Surgical Treatment in 2026: Optimizing MRA Therapy, ENaC Strategies, and Surgical Decision-Making Discussion 103

Time

Session

13:30

15:00

[ANAH Joint Symposium] Primary Aldosteronism in 2026

Practical Updates for Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Edith ChowHong Kong, China Moderator Personalizing Hypertension Treatment through Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone Physiology: Are We There Yet?Hypertension is the leading cardiovascular risk factor accounting for the global burden of cardiovascular disease and death. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system takes a crucial role as the regulator in maintaining the body’s electrolyte homeostasis. RAAS overactivity is a key pathophysiological mechanism in hypertension. Dysregulation of the RAAS is closely tied to development of hypertension. Primary aldosteronism is a disorder characterised by renin-independent aldosterone excess, manifesting as hypertension with greater risk of end-organ damage compared to individuals with essential hypertension. Recent guidelines for hypertension and primary aldosteronism have uniformly advocated for an expanded screening strategy for primary aldosteronism to improve awareness and detection of this treatable secondary cause of hypertension. Traditionally, screening for primary aldosteronism has relied on the conception that it is a dichotomous condition. However, increasing evidence have suggested that renin and aldosterone abnormalities may exist on a continuum of clinical severity. In individuals with elevated blood pressure and family history of hypertension, higher levels of aldosterone are associated with greater risks of incident hypertension. Among normotensive individuals, the association between high aldosterone and incident hypertension were only evident among those with a suppressed renin, suggesting a phenotype of subclinical aldosterone excess. On the other hand, among individuals with resistant hypertension, targeting RAAS overactivity with mineralocorticoid antagonists have demonstrated superior blood pressure reduction compared to beta-blockers or alpha-blockers, especially in those with lower renin levels. With the development of novel treatments for hypertension that target RAAS, including aldosterone synthase inhibitors and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid inhibitors, there is growing interest in the role of RAAS hormones or metabolites as biomarkers to guide diagnosis, prognostication and management of hypertension. Building upon this foundation, this talk will explore the potential role of aldosterone, renin and their metabolites as biomarkers in diagnosing and treating individuals with hypertension.

Hirotaka ShibataJapan Moderator 2026 Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the most prevalent causes for secondary hypertension. Early diagnosis and treatment are mandatory, because patients with PA present markedly higher morbidity of cardiovascular diseases than those with essential hypertension whose blood pressure levels are equally managed. A recently published Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline of PA emphasizes several points. First, screening for PA with serum/plasma aldosterone concentration and plasma renin (concentration or activity) is recommended in all individuals with hypertension. Second, in individuals who screen positive for PA, aldosterone suppression testing is suggested when screening results suggest an intermediate probability for lateralizing PA, but not all cases. Third, in individuals with PA, medical therapy or surgical therapy with the choice of therapy based on lateralization of aldosterone hypersecretion and candidacy for surgery. Fourth, in individuals with PA considering surgery, adrenal lateralization with CT scanning and adrenal venous sampling prior to deciding the treatment approach is suggested. Fifth, in individuals with PA receiving PA-specific medical therapy, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) are suggested as the dose is titrated by monitoring potassium, renal function, renin (concentration or activity) and blood pressure response during follow-up. We should be aware that diversity exists with respect to aldosterone assays, cut-off values for screening and aldosterone suppression tests, AVS standardization issues, and choice of MRAs depending on countries. Diagnosis and Management of Adrenal InsufficiencyThe diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency presents major clinical challenges. It is often unrecognized, which can lead to adrenal crisis and, if not identified and treated, death. There is a lack of understanding on who is at risk of adrenal insufficiency, how to test for it, and how to manage a life threatening adrenal crisis promptly. While primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency can be regarded as rare conditions, glucocorticoid-induced adrenal insufficiency might be quite common. One should consider glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome that may occur during glucocorticoid taper. Patient education in raising awareness of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome, such as fatigue and reduced appetite, is important when tapering glucocorticoid doses. The symptoms of glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome may resemble adrenal insufficiency, but HPA axis is normally functional. The degree and persistence of adrenal suppression after cessation of glucocorticoid therapy are dependent on overall exposure and recovery of adrenal function varies greatly among individuals. Upcoming ICE2026/JES2026: Enlightened Endocrinology in Unprecedented TimesWe are pleased to announce that the 22nd International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE2026) and the 99th Annual Congress of the Japan Endocrine Society (JES2026) will be held together at the Kyoto International Conference Center (ICC Kyoto) over five days from June 2 (Tue) to 6 (Sat), 2026 (ICE2026/JES2026). The International Congress of Endocrinology (ICE) is held every two years, and after 1988 and 2010, this will be the third time that the Congress will be held in Japan. The Japan Endocrine Society (JES) has been actively involved in the International Society of Endocrinology (ISE) since its establishment, and as the JES will celebrate its 100th anniversary in fiscal year 2026, hosting the congress in Japan will be an especially valuable opportunity for JES members. The theme of ICE2026/JES2026 is: Enlightened Endocrinology in Unprecedented Times. Globally, we are entering an unprecedented era, including digitalization, which has been rapidly accelerated by the experience of the COVID-19 pandemic; a super-aging society, which is mainly faced by developed countries; and extreme weather events, as exemplified by global warming. In the midst of these unprecedented times, we will gather in Kyoto - the birthplace of the Japan Endocrine Society - to discuss the new century of clinical and basic research in various fields of endocrinology. Participants from all over the world are encouraged to present cutting-edge science from their respective countries, and through active discussions, we hope that you will experience the “Enlightened Endocrinology” of endocrinology in this unprecedented era. In June, flowers bloom profusely at shrines and temples in Kyoto with the blessings of water, and shrine gardens and hydrangea gardens are open to the public. We look forward to welcoming participants from all over the world to Kyoto - the ancient capital of Japan - and discussing the future of endocrinology!

Do We Still Need Confirmatory Testing?

Mitsuhide NaruseJapan Speaker Update in Primary AldosteronismPrimary aldosteronism (PA) is linked to significantly greater cardiovascular morbidity and mortality than essential hypertension, yet it offers a more favorable prognosis when appropriately treated. Early detection and targeted therapy are therefore essential for achieving optimal long-term outcomes and preserving quality of life. Since the release of the Endocrine Society’s guidelines in 2010, several countries—including Japan—have developed national recommendations (e.g., Endocrine Journal, 2021). This reflects growing awareness and research momentum, with over 3,500 publications in the past decade. In Japan, we have established a national PA registry and conducted multicenter studies under the Japan Primary Aldosteronism Study (JPAS), supported by AMED, resulting in more than 40 publications as Japan-originated evidence. Diagnostic protocols have become increasingly standardized, encompassing initial screening, confirmatory testing, subtype classification via adrenal venous sampling (AVS), and tailored treatment—mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonists for bilateral PA and adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. The integration of PA screening into routine hypertension care, alongside the standardization of diagnostic methods, has led to substantial improvements in clinical practice. However, key challenges remain. These include variability in assay methods (e.g., PRA vs. ARC for renin; CLEIA vs. RIA for aldosterone), which affects diagnostic thresholds; uncertainty regarding optimal cutoffs for screening and confirmatory tests; lack of consensus on AVS protocols (with or without cosyntropin); and ongoing debates over the role of non-invasive imaging and advanced surgical approaches (laparoscopic vs. robot-assisted adrenalectomy). These unresolved issues warrant evaluation through a cost-effectiveness lens. As PA diagnostics become increasingly integrated into hypertension management, a fundamental question emerges: How far should we go in diagnosing PA? This presentation will provide an updated overview of clinical practice and address these critical challenges in PA management.Do We Still Need Confirmatory Testing?
Skipping Confirmatory Tests: Modern Simplified Pathways

Ada E. D. TeoSingapore Speaker Modern Simplified Pathways for PA: From Screening to LocalizationBy introducing emerging strategies to enable more accurate non-invasive localization, this session aims to help clinicians reduce reliance on adrenal vein sampling and streamline precision diagnosis in primary aldosteronism.
From ARR to Subtyping: Practical Strategies for Streamlining Testing, Imaging, and AVS in Daily Practice

Wasita Warachit ParksookThailand Speaker From ARR to Subtyping: Practical Strategies for Streamlining Testing, Imaging, and AVS in Daily PracticeBy integrating guideline recommendations with current evidence and practical clinical reasoning, this session aims to help clinicians navigate the diagnostic pathway from ARR screening to subtype classification more efficiently, reduce unnecessary testing, and optimize individualized treatment strategies for patients with primary aldosteronism.
Medical vs Surgical Treatment in 2026: Optimizing MRA Therapy, ENaC Strategies, and Surgical Decision-Making

Cheng Hsuan TsaiTaiwan Speaker Medical vs Surgical Treatment in 2026: Optimizing MRA Therapy, ENaC Strategies, and Surgical Decision-Making
Discussion

103