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Hyponatremic seizure in a child using desmopressin for nocturnal enuresis
M B Donoghue1, M E Latimer, H L Pillsbury
1Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Background:
Intranasal desmopressin has been used extensively to treat primary nocturnal enuresis. While it has proven to be a safe, effective agent for many who are affected by this condition, the potential for complications exists.
Objectives:
To report a case of severe hyponatremia associated with a generalized tonic-clonic seizure in a 10-year-old boy who had been receiving intranasal desmopressin nightly for nocturnal enuresis and to briefly review therapeutic options for nocturnal enuresis; and to present the role of desmopressin.
Setting:
Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC.
Intervention:
Fluid restriction and intravenous isotonic saline solution with 5% dextrose was administered to raise the serum sodium level.
Outcome:
Prevention of further seizures with normalization of serum sodium levels without any obvious neurological sequelae.
Conclusions:
This case illustrates the importance of weighing the benefits and risks of intranasal desmopressin therapy.