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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Stephen Ball
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Disorders of water balance are a common feature of clinical practice. An understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of the key endocrine regulator of water balance vasopressin (VP) is key to diagnosis and management of these disorders. Diabetes insipidus is the result of a lack of VP or (less commonly) resistance to the renal effects of the hormone. Diagnostic testing can clarify aetiology and direct appropriate management. VP production can be associated with hyponatraemia. A comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular status and pharmacological influences are needed in these circumstances to differentiate between primary (inappropriate) and secondary (appropriate) physiological VP production. As with diabetes insipidus, diagnostic testing can help define the aetiology of hyponatraemia and direct appropriate management. Patients with disorders of water balance benefit from a joint clinical and laboratory medicine approach to diagnosis and management. © 2007 The Association for Clinical Biochemistry.
Author(s): Ball SG
Publication type: Review
Publication status: Published
Journal: Annals of Clinical Biochemistry
Year: 2007
Volume: 44
Issue: 5
Pages: 417-431
ISSN (print): 0004-5632
ISSN (electronic): 1758-1001
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1258/000456307781646030
DOI: 10.1258/000456307781646030
PubMed id: 17761027