Cerebral salt wasting syndrome in brain injury patients: a potential cause of hyponatremia

Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 1997 May;78(5):540-2. doi: 10.1016/s0003-9993(97)90173-8.

Abstract

Hyponatremia is a common neuromedical problem seen in survivors of central nervous system injury. The etiology of this hyponatremia is often diagnosed as syndrome of inappropriate diuretic hormone (SIADH). Fluid restriction is usually the first line of treatment. However, this can exacerbate vasospasm and produce resultant ischemia. Cerebral salt wasting is a syndrome of renal sodium loss that may occur commonly after central nervous system injury, yet remains unrecognized. Treatment of cerebral salt wasting consists of hydration and salt replacement. This article uses a case report to discuss the importance of recognition of this syndrome, and treatment concerns are reviewed.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Brain Injuries / complications*
  • Brain Injuries / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyponatremia / diagnosis
  • Hyponatremia / etiology*
  • Hyponatremia / therapy
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome / complications*
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome / therapy
  • Middle Aged
  • Subarachnoid Hemorrhage / complications*
  • Subarachnoid Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Syndrome