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Updated: Aug 2, 2026
07:15
Intranasal Administration of CNS Therapeutics to Awake Mice
Published on: April 8, 2013
Summary
Severe hypernatraemia in adults is uncommon. This study found it linked to diabetes mellitus, intracranial disorders, and dehydration, often exacerbated by specific saline treatments.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
Background:
- Abnormalities in plasma sodium concentration, particularly hypernatraemia, are critical clinical issues.
- Understanding the causes and management of severe hypernatraemia is essential for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes and clinical characteristics of severe hypernatraemia (plasma sodium > 154 mmol/l) in adult patients.
- To analyze the role of underlying conditions and treatments in the development of hypernatraemia.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study over one year identifying 20 patients with severe hypernatraemia.
- Analysis of patient groups: diabetes mellitus, primary intracranial disorder, and dehydration.
- Correlation analysis between plasma sodium and blood glucose changes in diabetic patients.
Main Results:
- Hypernatraemia developed in 8 diabetic patients despite hypotonic saline treatment, correlating with blood glucose changes.
- 8 patients with intracranial disorders showed abnormal antidiuretic hormone production, with high mortality in this group.
- 4 dehydrated patients, two with gastrointestinal hemorrhage, developed hypernatraemia partly due to 0.9% saline infusion.
Conclusions:
- Severe hypernatraemia in adults has diverse causes including diabetes, intracranial issues, and dehydration.
- Treatment strategies, especially saline administration, can inadvertently worsen hypernatraemia in certain conditions.
- Frequent biochemical monitoring and intensive care unit management are crucial for severe hypernatraemia cases.
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