Neurogenic diabetes insipidus

Neurogenic diabetes insipidus (also known as central diabetes insipidus or CDI) is a type of diabetes insipidus primarily due to a lack of vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone or ADH) production in the brain. Vasopressin acts to regulate the body's retention of water; it is normally produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland before release into the bloodstream.

Causes

Neurogenic diabetes insipidus can be caused by damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland due to surgery, infection, tumors, or head injury. Genetic disorders can also lead to CDI. In some cases, the cause is unknown, a condition referred to as idiopathic.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of neurogenic diabetes insipidus are excessive urination and extreme thirst, especially for cold water. Other symptoms can include dehydration, fatigue, and weight loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of neurogenic diabetes insipidus is based on medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The water deprivation test is the most common diagnostic test. Other tests may include measuring the concentration of urine and blood, as well as the response to synthetic vasopressin.

Treatment

Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy with synthetic vasopressin. This can be administered as a nasal spray, oral tablets, or injection. In addition to medication, patients are often advised to ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

See also

• Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
• Diabetes mellitus
• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland