Diabetes Insipidus
Description
A rare disorder that causes too much urine to be produced because the kidneys are not able to absorb the correct amount of water as the blood is being filtered. The hypothalamus in the brain produces a hormone called ADH (antidiuretic hormone) which is stored in the pituitary gland. ADH normally causes the kidneys to absorb water from the urine before it leaves the kidneys and enters the bladder. Diabetes insipidus can be caused by a failure of the hypothalamus to produce ADH (central diabetes insipidus) or by a failure of the kidneys to react normally to ADH (nephrogenic diabetes insipidus). This disorder can cause dehydration or abnormalities of the blood chemistry (electrolytes). Diabetes insipidus is not related to the more common diabetes that causes elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels (diabetes mellitus).
Symptoms
Excessive thirst, increased urination (polyurina), dry mouth, dry skin, fatigue, muscle pain.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. A urine test (urinalysis/UA) and a measurement of the amount of urine will be done. Imaging tests of the brain such as a MRI may be performed.
- MRI
- UA
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of diabetes insipidus. Central diabetes insipidus is treated with desmopressin which replaces the missing ADH. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is managed by reducing salt intake and drinking increased water. Occasionally the water pill hydrochlorothiazide will be prescribed.
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