Hyponatraemia caused by repeated cerebrospinal fluid drainage in post haemorrhagic hydrocephalus.

Abstract

Three hyponatraemic infants had post-haemorrhagic hydrocephalus which was treated by repeated drainage of cerebrospinal fluid. Each required oral sodium supplements. The concentration of sodium in the cerebrospinal fluid was such that as much as 3 mmol of sodium could have been removed with each ventricular tap. Serum sodium concentrations should be monitored closely in any infant requiring regular drainage of cerebrospinal fluid.