Obstructive sodium-losing nephropathy--a case report and review

The third case in the literature of sodium-losing renal disease due to obstruction is presented. The experimental evidence and limited clinical experience is reviewed which suggests that the sodium loss is due to an inappropriate response in the adaptive processes that are initiated by the loss of functioning nephrons. The immediate treatment is by replacement of sodium but in the long term the condition may be reversed by very cautious reduction in sodium intake. Definitive treatment may be indicated where obstruction is the cause and consequently this should be sought in all cases of salt-losing renal disease.