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Hyponatremic hypertensive syndrome in an obese man with renal ischemia
1Division of Nephrology, King Abdul Aziz Hospital, Makkah, Saudi Arabia. ksaeed20@hotmail.com
Insights
Hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome, a rare electrolyte disorder, can present with severe hypertension and low sodium. This case highlights its occurrence in a 45-year-old man, emphasizing the need for prompt diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Renovascular hypertension can present with electrolyte imbalances, notably hyponatremia.
- The hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome, characterized by low serum sodium and elevated blood pressure, was previously primarily documented in pediatric cases.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old man presented with profound weakness, confusion, severe hypertension, and critically low serum sodium and potassium levels.
- Initial management with captopril for hypertension led to renal function decline, necessitating its discontinuation.
Findings:
- Diagnostic workup, including Color Doppler renal ultrasound and magnetic resonance angiography, confirmed bilateral renal artery stenosis.
- The patient's clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome in an adult.
Implications:
- This case underscores that hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome can occur in adults, not just children.
- Prompt identification and management of renal artery stenosis are crucial for resolving severe hypertension and electrolyte disturbances.
- Highlights the importance of considering renovascular causes in patients with unexplained severe hypertension and hyponatremia.
Abstract:
Renovascular hypertension occasionally manifests as an electrolyte disorder. The combination of hyponatremia and renovascular hypertension is known as hyponatremic-hypertensive syndrome. This syndrome was initially reported in children. Here, we describe a 45 year-old Saudi man who was admitted to the hospital with generalized body weakness and inability to walk. He was confused and was noted to have severe hypertension and very low serum sodium and potassium. The patient was recently started on captopril for blood pressure control, which was discontinued because of deterioration of renal function. Color Doppler renal ultrasound, and magnetic resonance angiography confirmed the diagnosis of renal artery stenosis.
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