Diabetes insipidus

Definition

Diabetes Insipidus is an endocrine disorder characterized by an imbalance of water in the body, leading to intense thirst and excessive urination. It occurs due to either a deficiency of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) or the kidneys' inability to respond to ADH.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are two main types: central diabetes insipidus and nephrogenic diabetes insipidus.
2. Central diabetes insipidus is caused by damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
3. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus results from the kidneys' failure to respond to ADH.
4. Symptoms include polyuria (excessive urination) and polydipsia (excessive thirst).
5. Treatment may involve hormone replacement therapy for central type or medications that reduce urine output for nephrogenic type.

Review Questions

• What are the primary symptoms of diabetes insipidus?
• How does central diabetes insipidus differ from nephrogenic diabetes insipidus?
• What are common treatments for managing diabetes insipidus?

Related terms

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH): A hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland that helps regulate water balance in the body.

Polyuria: A condition characterized by excessive urination, often seen in patients with diabetes insipidus.

Polydipsia: Excessive thirst commonly associated with conditions like diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus.