Diabetes Insipidus (DI):
Due to deficiency of ADH/vasopressin – may be temporary or chronic. Characterised by persistent excessive quantities of urine and excessive thirst (from impaired resorption of water).
Aetiology:
Primary unknown cause
Secondary due to pathologic lesions (eg cranial injuries, tumours, vascular lesions, infections)
Two types – cranial (deficient ADH production) and nephrogenic (renal tubules are unresponsive to ADH)
Clinical features:
Polydipsia, polyuria and nocturia. Insidious or abrupt onset.
May progress to dehydration and hypovolaemia.
Diagnosis is ‘water deprivation test’
DIDMOAD Syndrome:
Diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic atrophy and deafness.
Treatment:
Hormone replacement therapy (vasopressin injections or nasal sprays).
Diuretics can reduce polyuria
Comments are closed.