Definition
“A chronic disorder marked by excessive urination and usually intense thirst and dehydration, caused either by insufficient production or release of the pituitary hormone vasopressin or by inability of the kidneys to respond effectively to vasopressin.” thefreedictionary.com

Diabetes insipidus (too little ADH or ADH doesn’t work). I.e. Either ADH deficiency (central DI) or ADH resistance (nephrogenic DI). This results in polyuria and compensatory polydipsia.

Different types of Diabetes Insipidus.

  • Central diabetes insipidus. Is the most common type of DI. It is caused by structural damage/disruption to the pituitary gland or hypothalamus. This damage disrupts the normal production, storage, and release of ADH. Common causes of the damage are trauma, surgery, neoplasm, stroke, infection (e.g. meningitis), inflammation, or idiopathic. In children, the cause may be an inherited genetic disorder. In some cases the cause is unknown.
  • Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus is caused by a defect in the renal tubules. This defect makes the kidneys unable to properly respond to ADH. The defect may be due to an inherited disorder or a chronic kidney disorder. Certain drugs, such as lithium or the antiviral medications cidofovir and foscarnet (Foscavir), also can cause nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.
  • Gestational diabetes insipidus. Gestational diabetes insipidus is rare and occurs only during pregnancy and when an enzyme made by the placenta destroys ADH in the mother.
  • Primary polydipsia.  Primary polydipsia is NOT a problem with ADH production or lack of response to ADH. However, Taking in an excessive amount of water for a prolonged period of time alone can damage the kidneys and suppress ADH, making the body unable to concentrate urine. Read more on Primary Polydipsia here.

 

Important Diabetes Insipidus Links

 

 

Further Reading / Reference

 

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