Diabetes Insipidus

Endocrinology

Overview

Definition

Disorder of water balance caused by ADH deficiency or resistance.

Epidemiology

Rare.

Etiology & Risk Factors

  • Central: Head trauma, pituitary tumor, idiopathic
  • Nephrogenic: Lithium, hypercalcemia, genetic

Clinical Symptoms

  • Polyuria (massive volumes of dilute urine)
  • Polydipsia
  • Nocturia

Clinical Approach

Diagnosis

  • Water deprivation test
  • Desmopressin challenge
  • Hypernatremia

Management

  • Central: Desmopressin (DDAVP)
  • Nephrogenic: Thiazide diuretics, low sodium diet

Complications

  • Severe dehydration
  • Hypernatremia
  • Seizures