A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE EXCRETION OF WATER AND SOLIDS BY NORMAL AND ABNORMAL KIDNEYS

Abstract

Individuals with various types of renal disease were subjected to extreme water restriction (700 cc. per 24 hours). When the nephrotic type of edema was absent, a large volume of urine was excreted in which there was a normal amount of excretory wastes. The extra water was obtained at the expense of body water. When the nephrotic type of edema was present, there was a small volume of urine and retention of excretory wastes. Presumably, the body water was so firmly fixed in the tissues that it was not released for urine formation. When water was allowed, both groups responded with a large volume of urine and an increased excretion of waste products. In renal disease, regardless of type or whether edema is present or absent, an enormous fluid intake is imperative if retention of wastes is to be avoided.