Hypokalemia Induced Partial Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus: A Case Report

Abstract

Diabetes insipidus is a condition characterised by a large volume of diluted urine production andincreased thirst. In this case report, a 49-year-old gentleman presented with 3 months of polyuria andpolydipsia. He had a repeated history of hypokalemia. On the evaluation of polyuria and polydipsia,he was diagnosed with partial nephrogenic diabetes insipidus based on his inability to concentrateurine after a water deprivation test and his less than 50% response to exogenous desmopressin.On the evaluation of recurrent hypokalemia, the investigation reports met biochemical criteria forthe diagnosis of Gitelman syndrome. He was encouraged to increase his fluid intake as required,and potassium chloride supplementation relieved his symptoms. This case report demonstrates thereversibility of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus with a correction of hyperkalemia.