Question

Diabetes insipidus is a condition in which a patient produces copious, but “tasteless”, amounts of urine (as opposed to “sweet” urine...) What could be a root endocrine cause of this condition? What could be a treatment? Explain.

Answer 1

Diabetes insipidus is caused when the pituitary gland is unable to secrete the hormone vasopressin that is responsible in regulating body fluid balance. Vasopressin is a anti diuretic hormone normally released from the posterior pituitary gland. The lack of vasopressin hormone results in excess fluid loss and increasing risk of dehydration. The common causes of diabetes insipidus are : damage to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus secondary to any surgical procedure,presence of tumor, injury to brain after any accidents, genetic diseases,renal damage, due to pregnancy, disturbances in hypothalamus.The common complications are weakness, electrolyte disturbances, vomiting,anorexia, excess thirst (polydipsia),altered sensorium,muscular cramps. The diagnostic investigations includes history collection like :family history , past surgical,renal insufficiency, any head injury,cancer treatment.Magnetic resonance imaging to check for any abnormalities in the pituitary gland.Genetic screening can done to identify genetic transmission of disease within the family members.Treatment involves in treating the underlying root cause : pituitary tumor evacuation, Low salt site to spare renal function and to reduce excess excretion of urine, prevention of dehydration by administering electrolytes, Administering desmopressin to initiate the action of antidiuretic hormone.