Liddle syndrome — also known as pseudoaldosteronism — is a rare genetic disorder that causes abnormal kidney function, which leads to high blood pressure. If left undiagnosed or untreated, high blood pressure can cause life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney disease.
UPMC experts provide personalized, multidisciplinary care for people with Liddle syndrome. Their goal is to manage symptoms, optimize quality of life, and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.
Liddle syndrome — also known as pseudoaldosteronism — is a rare genetic disorder that causes abnormal kidney function, which leads to hypertension (high blood pressure). If left undiagnosed or untreated, high blood pressure can cause life-threatening complications such as heart disease or stroke.
There is no cure for Liddle syndrome. Most people can successfully manage Liddle syndrome with medication and ongoing medical care.
For people with Liddle syndrome who experience kidney failure, a kidney transplant may resolve Liddle syndrome symptoms.
There are three types of Liddle syndrome based on the gene mutation that is causing the condition:
Liddle syndrome is a genetic (inherited) condition caused by a mutation (change) in one of the genes that controls your kidneys’ ability to regulate blood pressure, potassium, sodium, and fluid levels in your body.
You are at risk for Liddle syndrome if you have a parent who has been diagnosed with Liddle syndrome or is a carrier of the mutated gene.
If left undiagnosed or untreated, high blood pressure caused by Liddle syndrome can cause life-threatening complications, including:
Liddle syndrome is a genetic condition. One copy of the mutated gene is enough to cause Liddle syndrome. If you have a family history of Liddle syndrome, genetic testing and counseling can help determine if you are a carrier of the gene.
Liddle syndrome is a rare condition that has been identified in populations worldwide. However, health experts aren’t sure how many people are affected because many cases are undiagnosed or unconfirmed.
The main symptom of Liddle syndrome is severe high blood pressure that doesn’t respond well to routine treatment. High blood pressure usually starts during childhood or adolescence.
Other symptoms of Liddle syndrome include:
The Liddle syndrome triad refers to the three most common symptoms of Liddle syndrome:
If you have symptoms of Liddle syndrome — especially if you have a parent or another relative who has been diagnosed with the condition — you should schedule an appointment with your doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment may reduce your risk of complications.
Liddle syndrome may be diagnosed after blood pressure tests, blood tests, and genetic testing.
During your visit, your doctor will:
Tests to diagnose Liddle syndrome include:
With lifelong treatment and monitoring, most people with Liddle syndrome can live full and active lives.
Treatment for Liddle syndrome aims to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
Treatments may include:
Your doctor may suggest limiting sodium (salt) in your diet and recommending that you work with a registered dietitian to ensure the right balance of nutrients.
Your doctor may recommend that you get regular exercise, quit smoking, avoid alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight to decrease your blood pressure.
Medicines usually used to treat high blood pressure may not be effective in people with Liddle syndrome.
Medications for Liddle syndrome may include:
With proper treatment, most people with Liddle syndrome do not develop kidney failure. However, if you have kidney failure resulting from Liddle syndrome, you may need a kidney transplant.
We partner with UPMC kidney transplant experts to provide care before, during, and after transplant.
A kidney transplant is often the best treatment option for people with Liddle syndrome, which has caused kidney failure. Kidney transplant recipients typically experience excellent outcomes.
When you choose UPMC for Liddle syndrome care, you will receive:
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-04-24.
