Oliguria

Definition

Oliguria is a medical condition characterized by a reduction in the production and output of urine, typically less than 400-500 mL per day in adults. This term is particularly relevant in the context of fluid volume management, renal-associated fluid volume excess, and the use of osmotic diuretics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oliguria is a common clinical sign of acute kidney injury, as the kidneys are unable to effectively filter and excrete waste products from the body.
2. In the context of fluid volume management, oliguria can be an indicator of hypovolemia or fluid volume depletion, requiring prompt intervention to restore fluid balance.
3. Renal-associated fluid volume excess, such as in conditions like congestive heart failure or nephrotic syndrome, can also lead to oliguria as the kidneys struggle to maintain proper fluid homeostasis.
4. Osmotic diuretics, such as mannitol or glycerol, can be used to treat oliguria by increasing urine output and promoting the excretion of excess fluid from the body.
5. Persistent or severe oliguria may require more advanced interventions, such as fluid resuscitation, diuretic therapy, or even renal replacement therapy, depending on the underlying cause.

Review Questions

• Explain how oliguria can be a sign of acute kidney injury and how it relates to fluid volume management.
  • Oliguria is a common clinical sign of acute kidney injury, as the kidneys are unable to effectively filter and excrete waste products from the body. In the context of fluid volume management, oliguria can be an indicator of hypovolemia or fluid volume depletion, as the kidneys attempt to conserve fluid to maintain blood pressure and perfusion. Prompt intervention to restore fluid balance is crucial in these cases, as persistent oliguria can lead to further complications and organ dysfunction.
• Describe the relationship between renal-associated fluid volume excess and the development of oliguria.
  • Renal-associated fluid volume excess, such as in conditions like congestive heart failure or nephrotic syndrome, can also lead to oliguria. In these situations, the kidneys struggle to maintain proper fluid homeostasis, leading to the accumulation of excess fluid in the body. This can result in a reduced ability to effectively filter and excrete waste products, leading to a decrease in urine output and the development of oliguria. Addressing the underlying cause of the fluid volume excess is essential in managing oliguria in these cases.
• Evaluate the role of osmotic diuretics in the treatment of oliguria and explain how they can help promote the excretion of excess fluid from the body.
  • Osmotic diuretics, such as mannitol or glycerol, can be used to treat oliguria by increasing urine output and promoting the excretion of excess fluid from the body. These medications work by drawing water into the renal tubules, creating an osmotic gradient that enhances the filtration and excretion of water and solutes. This can help to restore proper fluid balance and alleviate the symptoms of oliguria, particularly in cases where the underlying cause is related to fluid volume excess. The use of osmotic diuretics should be carefully monitored, as they can also lead to potential side effects and electrolyte imbalances if not managed appropriately.

Related terms

Anuria:

The complete absence of urine production, which is a more severe form of oliguria.

Polyuria:

The excessive production and output of urine, often associated with conditions like diabetes insipidus or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.

Dehydration:

A state of reduced fluid volume in the body, which can contribute to the development of oliguria.