NEUROGENIC HYPERNATREMIA AND HYPERCHLOREMIA

Abstract

Four cases are reported in which primary diseases of the brain were associated with markedly elevated levels of Na and Cl in the blood with decreased excretion of Cl in the urine. 14 similar cases which have appeared in the literature are summarized. Evidence is presented which suggests that hypernatremia and hyperchloremia in these cases are secondary to the neurologic lesions. An hypothesis is presented which suggests that the electrolyte abnormalities in these cases may be secondary to damage to a cerebral osmoreceptor mechanism.