
This is characterized by clinically detectable edema or ascites that signifies an increase in total body water and sodium. Paradoxically, however, a decrease in the effective circulating volume, critical for tissue perfusion, stimulates the same pathophysiologic mechanism of impaired water excretion by the kidney that is observed in hypovolemic hypotonic hyponatremia. Commonly encountered examples include liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, nephrotic syndrome, and severe hypoproteinemia (albumin level <1.5-2 g/dL).
For more on the presentation of hyponatremia, read here.
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Cite this: Romesh Khardori. Fast Five Quiz: What Do You Know About Hyponatremia? - Medscape - Apr 19, 2016.
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