Disorders of Sodium Homeostasis

Abstract

1. Renal sodium excretion is the primary determinant of sodium homeostasis. 2. Changes in sodium concentration in extracellular fluid (ECF) are associated with disorders of water balance. 3. Hypovolemia refers to losses of salt and water from the ECF whereas dehydration is defined as primarily water loss from ECF 4. Hypervolemia results when fluid accumulates in the ECF at a higher rate than the Output due to either sodium and water retention or abnormal sodium and water intake. 5. Activation of sympathetic nervous system, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone, and epithelial sodium channel contributes to renal sodium and water retention.