Disordered water metabolism: hyponatremia

Normal osmoregulation is maintained by the proper function and interplay of factors influencing thirst, renal water metabolism, and vasopressin secretion. In pathophysiologic states, body water homeostasis is disrupted and hyponatremia ensures. Hyponatremia associated with cardiac failure, hepatic failure, respiratory failure, diabetes mellitus, the postoperative state, and other disorders is commonly found in the critical care setting. The pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of hyponatremia are discussed.