Urinary Electrolyte Research Articles

Isolated hypoaldosteronism is a cause of hypovolemic but not euvolemic hyponatremia.

Hypoaldosteronism is characterized by hyperkalemia, and/or hypovolemic hyponatremia (HH), often accompanied by metabolic acidosis. HH is typical of hypoaldosteronism, whereas euvolemic hyponatremia (EH) is not. The purpose of the current study is to describe the characteristics of hyponatremia in hypoaldosteronism and elucidate whether EH can be considered part of the disease's spectrum. In a hypoaldosteronism cohort, we analyzed the factors associated with hyponatremia, comparing the characteristics of EH and HH and their associated factors. Correlation analyses of mineralocorticoid biomarkers, such as the transtubular potassium gradient (TTKG), the urinary Na+/K+ ratio (UNa+/UK+) with serum, and urinary electrolytes were performed in both types of hyponatremia. Of 112 hypoaldosteronism episodes, 77.7% were ≥65 years old, 44.6% were women, and 80 (71.4%) had hyponatremia. Hyponatremia was negatively associated with the presence of chronic kidney disease, and positively with a hypovolemic state, malnutrition, a prior history of hyponatremia, and glucocorticoid therapy. HH: 61/80 and EH: 19/80 episodes. HH was associated with an age ≥65 years and the use of diuretics, as well as factors related to an aldosterone deficit and/or mineralocorticoid resistance. In HH but not in EH, urinary potassium was correlated with the TTKG, and urinary sodium with both the TTKG and the UNa+/UK+. Both HH and EH can be observed in hypoaldosteronism. However, only the former would be related to insufficient mineralocorticoid activity. Isolated hypoaldosteronism is a poorly understood and underdiagnosed endocrinological disorder, classically recognized only when hyperkalemia is present. The development of hypovolemic hyponatremia, however, is also easily explained by the physiopathology of the disorder. The current study addresses the features of hyponatremia when found in the context of mineralocorticoid insufficiency, and confirms an association between hypovolemic hyponatremia and isolated hypoaldosteronism. Thus, the clinical spectrum of hypoaldosteronism is extended to include hypovolemic hyponatremia as a frequent manifestation of the disorder.

Neurohormonal Activation and Renal Chloride Avidity in Acute Heart Failure: Clinical Evidence Supporting the “Chloride Theory”

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) progression according to changes in the serum chloride concentration ([sCl−]) was recently proposed as the “chloride (Cl) theory” for HF pathophysiology. The present study examined the association of neurohormones and renal Cl avidity to determine their contribution to acute HF and their involvement to the “Cl theory.” Methods: Data from 29 patients with acute HF (48% men; 80.3 ± 12 years) were analyzed. Blood and urine samples were obtained before decongestive therapy. Clinical tests included peripheral blood, serum and spot urinary electrolytes, b-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and plasma neurohormones. Results: In the 29 patients, urinary Cl concentrations ([uCl−]) inversely correlated with log (plasma renin activity [PRA]) (r = −0.64, p = 0.0002) and log (plasma aldosterone concentration) (r = −0.50, p = 0.006). The [sCl−]‒[uCl−] difference positively correlated with log PRA (r = 0.63, p = 0.0002) and log (plasma aldosterone concentration) (r = 0.49, p = 0.008). Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the [sCl−]‒[uCl−] difference, an excretion (low renal Cl avidity) group and an absorption (high renal Cl avidity) group. Compared with the excretion group (−77 to ‒5 mEq/L; n = 14), the absorption group (1–84 mEq/L; n = 15) exhibited greater renal impairment (serum creatinine; 1.45 ± 0.63 vs. 1.00 ± 0.38 mg/d, p = 0.029) and cardiac burden (log BNP; 2.99 ± 0.3 vs. 2.66 ± 0.32 pg/mL, p = 0.008), higher log PRA (0.20 ± 0.58 vs. −0.25 ± 0.35 ng/mL/h, p = 0.018), and lower fractional urinary Cl excretion (1.34 ± 1.3 vs. 5.33 ± 4.1%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Renal Cl avidity differs in acute HF, i.e., excretion (low renal Cl avidity) versus absorption (high renal Cl avidity) types, involving renin-aldosterone-angiotensin activity as the underlying mechanism, which provides the neurohormonal background for the “Cl theory.” A version of this study was presented in part at the annual international scientific assembly (ACC.23) of the American College of Cardiology, March 4–6, 2023.

KS-WNK1 is required for the renal response to extreme changes in potassium intake.

Kidney-specific with-no-lysine kinase 1 (KS-WNK1) is an isoform of WNK1 kinase that is predominantly found in the distal convoluted tubule of the kidney. The precise physiological function of KS-WNK1 remains unclear. Some studies have suggested that it could play a role in regulating potassium renal excretion by modulating the activity of the Na+-Cl- cotransporter (NCC). However, changes in the potassium diet from normal to high failed to reveal a role for KS-WNK1, but under a normal-potassium diet, the expression of KS-WNK1 is negligible. It is only detectable when mice are exposed to a low-potassium diet. In this study, we investigated the role of KS-WNK1 in regulating potassium excretion under extreme changes in potassium intake. After following a zero-potassium diet (0KD) for 10 days, KS-WNK1-/- mice had lower plasma levels of K+ and Cl- while exhibiting higher urinary excretion of Na+, Cl-, and K+ compared with KS-WNK1+/+ mice. After 10 days of 0KD or normal-potassium diet (NKD), all mice were challenged with a high-potassium diet (HKD). Plasma K+ levels markedly increased after the HKD challenge only in mice previously fed with 0KD, regardless of genotype. KSWNK1+/+ mice adapt better to HKD challenge than KS-WNK1-/- mice after a potassium-retaining state. The difference in the phosphorylated NCC-to-NCC ratio between KS-WNK1+/+ and KS-WNK1-/- mice after 0KD and HKD indicates a role for KS-WNK1 in both NCC phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. These observations show that KS-WNK1 helps the distal convoluted tubule to respond to extreme changes in potassium intake, such as those occurring in wildlife.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The findings of this study demonstrate that kidney-specific with-no-lysine kinase 1 plays a role in regulating urinary electrolyte excretion during extreme changes in potassium intake, such as those occurring in wildlife. .

Kinase Scaffold Cab39 Is Necessary for Phospho-Activation of the Thiazide-Sensitive NCC.

Potassium regulates the WNK (with no lysine kinase)-SPAK (STE20/SPS1-related proline/alanine-rich kinase) signaling axis, which in turn controls the phosphorylation and activation of the distal convoluted tubule thiazide-sensitive NCC (sodium-chloride cotransporter) for sodium-potassium balance. Although their roles in the kidney have not been investigated, it has been postulated that Cab39 (calcium-binding protein 39) or Cab39l (Cab39-like) is required for SPAK/OSR1 (oxidative stress response 1) activation. This study demonstrates how they control the WNK-SPAK/OSR1-NCC pathway. We created a global knockout of Cab39l and a tamoxifen-inducible, NCC-driven, Cab39 knockout. The 2 lines were crossed to generate Cab39-DKO (Cab39 double knockout) animals. Mice were studied under control and low-potassium diet, which activates WNK-SPAK/OSR1-NCC phosphorylation. Western blots were used to assess the expression and phosphorylation of proteins. Blood and urine electrolytes were measured to test for compromised NCC function. Immunofluorescence studies were conducted to localize SPAK and OSR1. Both Cab39l and Cab39 are expressed in distal convoluted tubule, and only the elimination of both leads to a striking absence of NCC phosphorylation. Cab39-DKO mice exhibited a loss-of-NCC function, like in Gitelman syndrome. In contrast to the apical membrane colocalization of SPAK with NCC in wild-type mice, SPAK and OSR1 become confined to intracellular puncta in the Cab39-DKO mice. In the absence of Cab39 proteins, NCC cannot be phosphorylated, resulting in a Gitelman-like phenotype. Cab39 proteins function to localize SPAK at the apical membrane with NCC, reminiscent of the Cab39 yeast homolog function, translocating kinases during cytokinesis.

Assessment of the Diuretic Effect of the Leaves of Cucumis Dipsaceus Ehrenb (Cucurbitaceae) in Rats: Using Aqueous and 80% Methanol Extracts.

The diuretic activity of the Cucumis dipsaceus leaf, which is used in indigenous medicine, has been claimed but has not yet undergone scientific evaluation. The objective of this study was to assess the diuretic activity of the aqueous and 80% methanol extracts derived from the leaves of Cucumis dipsaceus in rats. For the extraction process, the maceration technique was employed to obtain the aqueous and 80% methanol extracts from the Cucumis dipsaceus leaves. Male rats were then divided randomly into eight groups, with six rats in each group. These groups consisted of a negative control group, a positive control group, and three different groups for each extract at varying doses. The urine output volumes, the concentrations of urinary electrolytes (sodium, potassium, and chloride) and urinary pH, were measured and analysed to compare the results among the different groups. Both the aqueous and 80% methanol extracts of Cucumis dipsaceus leaves demonstrated a significant increase in urinary output at doses of 200mg/kg body weight (p<0.01) and 400mg/kg body weight (p<0.001). When comparing the urinary electrolyte excretion with the negative control group, the groups treated with the 400mg/kg body weight dose of the aqueous extract showed significant differences in the urinary excretion of sodium (p<0.05), chloride (p<0.01), and K+ (p<0.01). Similarly, the urinary excretion of K+ and Cl- also exhibited significant differences at moderate doses (K+: p<0.01, Cl-: p<0.05) and the highest doses (both: p<0.01) of the 80% methanol extract. Furthermore, the highest doses of both the aqueous (p<0.01) and 80% methanol (p<0.01) extracts demonstrated significant differences in saluretic effect. Both crude extracts of C. dipsaceus leaves have significant diuretic activity, providing support for the traditional use of the plant as a diuretic agent.

Effects of Patiromer and Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate on Blood Pressure in Rats with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Potassium-binders patiromer and sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) are approved to treat hyperkalaemia, which is frequently observed in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Elevated blood pressure (BP) is common in CKD, due in part to impaired sodium excretion. The effect of patiromer, which exchanges calcium for potassium and SZC, which exchanges sodium or hydrogen for potassium, on BP was assessed in a CKD rat model. Thirty-six Sprague Dawley rats with 5/6 nephrectomy were randomised to three groups (n = 12/group) to receive 4 g/kg/day patiromer or SZC, or vehicle treatment, for 8 weeks. BP was determined by radiotelemetry and urinary protein and electrolytes were measured. At Week 8, systolic BP (sBP) increased in all groups; however, patiromer led to a lower mean (standard deviation) sBP than vehicle or SZC (141 [2.9] vs 158 [5.2] or 162 [6.1] mm Hg, respectively, both p < 0.001), with no difference in sBP between vehicle and SZC (p = 0.08). Similar results were observed for diastolic BP. Serum potassium levels fell with SZC (p < 0.02), but not vehicle or patiromer. Urine potassium decreased with both patiromer and SZC versus vehicle (p < 0.01); urine sodium increased with SZC (p < 0.01); and urine calcium increased with patiromer (p < 0.01). Urine phosphorus decreased with patiromer (p < 0.01) but increased with SZC (p < 0.01). Patiromer resulted in less proteinuria than vehicle or SZC (both p < 0.017). After 8 weeks, treatment with patiromer resulted in lower BP in rats than vehicle or SZC. Further studies are needed to determine the mechanism of the differential effect of potassium binders on rat BP.

Adaptation mechanism of Phan Rang sheep to salinity in drinking water under tropical conditions.

The aims of this study were to determine adaptation mechanism of sheep to salinity in drinking water. A group of 10 male sheep were used in a 6-week of experiment, with 1week for pre-treatment period (Week 1), 4weeks for during treatment period (Week 2 to Week 5), and 1week for posttreatment period (Week 6). During the pre- and posttreatment periods, sheep consumed with fresh water. However, during treatment period, they were given with diluted seawater (DSW) at concentrations of 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2% for Weeks 2, 3, 4, and 5, respectively. Animal was offered 300 g concentrate and corn stover silage for ab libitum. Dry matter intake decreased as DSW increased, whereas sheep drinking DSW showed an increase in water intake and urine volume (p < 0.05). Body weight change decreased in 2% DSW. Sheep consuming 2% DSW exhibited higher plasma electrolyte levels compared to other groups. But plasma levels of AST, ALT, and creatinine were unaffected by DSW (p > 0.05). The elevated levels and excretions of urinary electrolytes were found in DSW groups (p < 0.05). Water balance was unaffected by DSW, except during the recovery period. It concluded that adapted sheep can consume DSW up to 1.5% without harmful effects.

Water Intake and Hydration Status among Pregnant Women in the Second Trimester in China: A Three-Day Metabolic Trial.

Adequate water intake and optimal hydration status during pregnancy are crucial for maternal and infant health. However, research on water intake by pregnant women in China is very limited. This study mainly aimed to observe the daily total water intake (TWI) of pregnant women and its different sources and to investigate the relationship between their water intake and hydration biomarkers. From October to November 2020, a convenience sample of pregnant women in the second trimester (n = 21) was recruited. Under conditions close to daily life, they undertook a 3-day metabolic trial. Each participant was provided with sufficient bottled water, and the weight of what they drank each time was measured. The intake of other beverages and foods was measured using a combination of weighing and duplicate portion method. Fasting venous blood and 24 h urine samples were collected and analyzed for the hydration biomarkers, including the serum/urine osmolality, urine pH, urine specific gravity, and the concentrations of major electrolytes in urine and serum. The results showed that the mean daily TWI was 3151 mL, of which water from beverages and foods accounted for 60.1% and 39.9%, respectively. The mean total fluid intake (TFI) was 1970 mL, with plain water being the primary contributor (68.7%, r = 0.896). Among the participants, 66.7% (n = 14, Group 1) met the TWI recommendation set by the Chinese Nutrition Society. Further analysis revealed that the TFI, water from beverages and foods, plain water, and milk and milk derivatives (MMDs) were significantly higher in Group 1 than those who did not reach the adequate intake value (Group 2) (p < 0.05). The results of hydration biomarkers showed that the mean 24 h urine volume in Group 1 was significantly higher than that in Group 2 (p < 0.05), while the 24 h urine osmolality, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, chloride, and creatinine concentrations in Group 1 were significantly lower than those in Group 2 (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were observed in serum biomarkers. Partial correlation analysis showed that TWI was moderately positively correlated with 24 h urine volume (r = 0.675) and negatively correlated with urine osmolality, sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and chloride concentrations (r = from-0.505 to -0.769), but it was not significantly correlated with serum biomarkers. Therefore, under free-living conditions, increasing the daily intake of plain water and MMDs is beneficial for pregnant women to maintain optimal hydration. The hydration biomarkers in urine are more accurate indicators of water intake and exhibit greater sensitivity compared to serum biomarkers. These findings provide a scientific basis for establishing appropriate water intake and hydration status for pregnant women in China.

Case Report on a Cocktail Drug Abuser Developing Rhabdomyolysis

Rhabdomyolysis is a medical emergency characterized by the break down of skeletal muscle leading to the release of intracellular contents into the blood stream, which can lead to acute kidney injury and even death. Drug abuse is one of the potential causes of rhabdomyolysis. This case report describes a 18-year-old male with a history of drug abuse who presented to the emergency department with severe muscle pain, weakness, dark and reduced amount of urine. The patient was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, which was likely due to a combination of high doses Marijuana, Chlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan (Corex Syrup), Dicyclomine, Tramadol, Acetaminophen and cigarette smoking over period of 4-5 years, landed up in rhabdomyolysis after joining gym. The patient was immediately started on aggressive intravenous fluid resuscitation, and his urine output and electrolyte levels were closely monitored. Patient required initiation of Hemodialysis over period of 15 days. Patient's muscle pain and weakness gradually improved over the next few days, and he was discharged with a diagnosis of AKI due to Rhabdomyolysis due to drug abuse. Prompt recognition and treatment of rhabdomyolysis are crucial to prevent serious complications, and addiction treatment should be pursued to prevent future episodes of rhabdomyolysis and other drugrelated complications.

2559. Antibiotic-induced Bartter-like syndrome - A Systematic Review

Abstract Background Bartter syndrome encompasses salt-losing tubulopathies characterized by hypokalemia, hypochloremic metabolic alkalosis, and hyperreninemic hyperaldosteronism with normal blood pressure. Acquired Bartter or Bartter-like syndrome (BLS) is commonly associated with the use of diuretics and antibiotics such as capreomycin, netilmicin, colistin, and amphotericin B. This systematic review was done to understand the time of occurrence of Bartter syndrome post-inciting drug and gain knowledge regarding its progression and management. Methods We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, medRxiv, and bioRxiv databases for articles published from 1986 to March 2022 using the keywords "Antibiotic," "Bartter Syndrome," "Pseudobartter Syndrome," and "Bartter-like." Studies that reported cases of BLS in adults or children with confirmation of the inciting drug were included. We excluded studies that did not provide sufficient details of the clinical presentation and outcome. Results We identified 31 studies, comprising 43 cases of BLS. The mean age of the patients was 41.1 years (range: 25–57 years), and 65.1% were female. The most common antimicrobial class associated with BLS was aminoglycosides (65.1%), followed by the polymyxin group. The most common antimicrobial was Gentamicin (41.8%), followed by Colistin (32.5%), Streptomycin, and Capreomycin (6.9% each). Hypokalemia(100%), metabolic alkalosis(97.2%), hypocalcemia(92.5%), and hypomagnesemia(100%) were reported in almost all patients. The median time of onset after exposure to the inciting agent was 10 days (range 7–18 days), and the median time for resolution after stopping the drug was 14 days (range 7–31 days). There was a complete resolution of the symptoms following discontinuation in all cases. Demographic and baseline characteristics of the patients Prevalence of electrolyte, acid-base disorder, and urinary electrolyte abnormalities Laboratory parameters among the reported cases Conclusion BLS is a rare but potentially reversible complication of various antimicrobials, most commonly aminoglycosides. The diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion and a careful review of the drug history. The prognosis is favorable, with a complete reversal of the state after drug discontinuation. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Estimation of 24-hour urinary sodium and potassium excretion among Chinese adults: a cross-sectional study from the China National Nutrition Survey

BackgroundHigh-sodium intake is one of the most important risk factors for hypertension and cardiovascular disease, yet reliable national estimates of sodium intake in Chinese adults have not been reported. ObjectivesWe estimated 24-h urinary sodium and potassium excretion and population daily sodium and potassium intake of Chinese adults for the first time at a national level. MethodsA nationally representative cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect 24-h urine specimens from Chinese adults aged ≥18 y as part of the China National Nutrition Survey 2015. Finally, 10,114 participants (4932 males and 5182 females) with complete 24-h urine specimens were included in the analysis. Estimates of mean urinary electrolyte excretion and demographic, socioeconomic, and health characteristics were used with weighted coefficients that accounted for sample selection probabilities, poststratification weighting, and nonresponse rates. ResultsThe estimation of overall weighted mean 24-h urinary sodium excretion was 4121 mg (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3993, 4250), 4155 mg (95% CI: 3993, 4317) in males and 4081 mg (95% CI: 3953, 4209) in females (P for sex difference = 0.36). Overall mean 24-h urinary potassium excretion was 1534 mg (95% CI: 1492, 1577), 1468 mg (95% CI: 1424, 1513) in males and 1614 mg (95% CI: 1569–1660) in females (P for sex difference <0.001). Mean 24-h urinary sodium excretion was significantly higher in rural adults (4350 mg; 95% CI: 4217, 4483) than in urban residents (3909 mg; 95% CI: 3739, 4080; P < 0.001), and in northern residents (4388 mg; 95% CI: 4237, 4539) than in southern residents (3998 mg; 95% CI: 3832, 4163; P = 0.002). ConclusionsThe first nationwide survey with 24-h urine collection confirmed that mean sodium intake in Chinese adults was more than twice the upper limit, whereas mean potassium intake was <60% of the lower limit, recommended by the World Health Organization. Urgent measures should be taken to reduce sodium intake and increase potassium intake in China.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of an exogenous thyrotoxicosis epidemic in prison

IntroductionAn outbreak of exogenous thyrotoxicosis is an uncommon cause of thyrotoxicosis. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and outcomes of exogenous thyrotoxicosis and electrolyte imbalance in a prison during...

Shikimic acid recovers diarrhea and its complications in SD rats fed lactose diet to induce diarrhea

BackgroundDiarrhea is the increase of excretion of human water content and an imbalance in the physiologic processes of the small and large intestine while shikimic acid is an important biochemical metabolite in plants. This study aims to study the anti-diarrheal activity of shikimic acid through restoring kidney function, antioxidant activity, inflammatory markers, sodium/potassium-ATPase activity, apoptosis genes, and histology of the kidney in SD rats fed lactose diet to induce diarrhea.ResultsThirty-six male SD rats (150 ± 10 g, 12 weeks old) were divided into 2 equal groups (18 rats/group) as follows: normal and diarrheal rats. Normal rats were divided into 3 equal groups of 6 rats each: the control, shikimic acid, and desmopressin drug groups. Diarrheal rats were also divided into 3 equal groups of 6 rats each: diarrheal, diarrheal rats + shikimic acid, and diarrheal rats + desmopressin drug groups. Shikimic acid restored serum urea and creatinine, urinary volume, kidney weight, sodium, potassium, and chloride balance in serum and urine. The acid returned the antioxidant (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase, malondialdehyde, NADPH oxidase activity, conjugated dienes, and oxidative index) activity and the inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and interleukin-10) to values approaching the control values. Shikimic acid also restored the sodium/potassium-ATPase activity, the apoptosis genes p53 and bcl-2, and the histology of kidney tissue in diarrheal rats to be near the control group.ConclusionsShikimic acid rescues diarrhea and its complications through restoring kidney function, serum and urinary electrolytes, antioxidant activity, inflammatory markers, sodium/potassium-ATPase activity, the apoptosis genes, and the histology of the kidney in diarrheal rats to approach the control one.

Trimethoprim inhibits renal H+-K+-ATPase in states of K+ depletion.

There is growing consensus that under physiological conditions, collecting duct H+ secretion is independent of epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) activity. We have recently shown that the direct ENaC inhibitor benzamil acutely impairs H+ excretion by blocking renal H+-K+-ATPase. However, the question remains whether inhibition of ENaC per se causes alterations in renal H+ excretion. To revisit this question, we studied the effect of the antibiotic trimethoprim (TMP), which is well known to cause K+ retention by direct ENaC inhibition. The acute effect of TMP (5 µg/g body wt) was assessed in bladder-catheterized mice, allowing real-time measurement of urinary pH, electrolyte, and acid excretion. Dietary K+ depletion was used to increase renal H+-K+-ATPase activity. In addition, the effect of TMP was investigated in vitro using pig gastric H+-K+-ATPase-enriched membrane vesicles. TMP acutely increased natriuresis and decreased kaliuresis, confirming its ENaC-inhibiting property. Under control diet conditions, TMP had no effect on urinary pH or acid excretion. Interestingly, K+ depletion unmasked an acute urine alkalizing effect of TMP. This finding was corroborated by in vitro experiments showing that TMP inhibits H+-K+-ATPase activity, albeit at much higher concentrations than benzamil. In conclusion, under control diet conditions, TMP inhibited ENaC function without changing urinary H+ excretion. This finding further supports the hypothesis that the inhibition of ENaC per se does not impair H+ excretion in the collecting duct. Moreover, TMP-induced urinary alkalization in animals fed a low-K+ diet highlights the importance of renal H+-K+-ATPase-mediated H+ secretion in states of K+ depletion.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The antibiotic trimethoprim (TMP) often mediates K+ retention and metabolic acidosis. We suggest a revision of the underlying mechanism that causes metabolic acidosis. Our results indicate that TMP-induced metabolic acidosis is secondary to epithelial Na+ channel-dependent K+ retention. Under control dietary conditions, TMP does not per se inhibit collecting duct H+ secretion. These findings add further argument against a physiologically relevant voltage-dependent mechanism of collecting duct H+ excretion.

Abstract 16169: Use of Ramen in Heart Failure: Correction of Severe Hyponatremia With Salt Intake

Background Hyponatremia (Na&lt;136mmol) is the most common electrolyte imbalance in patients with heart failure (HF) and is associated with increased mortality, morbidity and rehospitalizations. The mechanisms of hyponatremia in heart failure are multifold and include an increased sympathetic tone and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system, salt and water retention in the proximal and distal tubules, high antidiuretic hormone coupled low glomerular filtration rate and diuretic use. We present a case highlighting the complexity of sodium balance in acute decompensated heart failure. Case Presentation A 65-year-old female with a medical history of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (EF 60-65%), pulmonary hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and CKD presented to the Emergency Department with volume overload. We began diuresis with bumetanide on hospital day 1 (HD#), however given inadequate urine output chlorthalidone was added on HD #5 and metolazone on HD #7. On admission, her sodium was 134 and down trended to a low of 121 on HD#13. She had worsening BUN/Cr from 62/2.14 at admission to a peak 135/2.66. She developed oral intake intolerance, asterixis and encephalopathy. The management changed to halting diuretics, fluid restriction, and hypertonic saline without improvement. Urine electrolytes were used to tailor treatment, leading to cessation of hypertonic saline stopped and introducing Ramen (875 mg of Na) and salt tablets (394 mg of Na). While maintaining euvolemia, there was resolution of symptoms and improvement in Na=134, BUN 49, Cr 1.16. Discussion Treatment options for hyponatremia in HF, such as water restriction or the use of hypertonic saline with loop diuretics, have limited efficacy. The use of high oral salt intake with close monitoring of jugular vein pressure, weight, symptoms, and urine electrolytes can help a select group of patients with hyponatremia and advance heart failure despite traditional knowledge.

Evaluation of Diuretic Activity of Siddha Poly Herbal Formulation &lt;i&gt;Vithu Vagai Chooranam&lt;/i&gt; in Rodents

The current pharmacological investigation was performed to study the diuretic activity of Siddha polyherbal formulation Vithu Vagai Chooranam (VVC) in Wistar albino rats using the Lipschitz method. The animals were divided into four Groups (I, II, III, and IV) of six rats (n = 6) each. Group I served as control treated with milk (1ml/kg p.o), and Group II received Standard furosemide (10 mg/kg, p.o). Groups III and Group IV were treated with test drug at a dose of 70mg/kg and 90mg/kg, p.o, respectively. The urine volume, pH, and electrolyte concentration (Na+, K+ and Cl-) were estimated at the end of 24 hours. Diuretic index, Lipschitz values, and natriuretic index were also calculated from the results to make a comparison with control and furosemide-treated groups. Statistical analysis was carried out using a one-way analysis of variance, followed by Dunnett’s ‘t’ test. Oral administration of VVC at both doses significantly increased the urine output and concentration of urinary electrolytes (p &lt; 0.01). The VVC-induced diuresis pattern was almost like that of frusemide. The findings revealed that the Vithu vagai chooranam possessed significant diuretic activity in experimental rats.

Evaluation of the clinical value of sodium examination in spot urine in patients presenting with acute heart failure while using SGLT2i – ‘‘SPOT HF STUDY’’

Objectives: Sodium measurement in spot urine provides important information about the adequacy of the initial dose in acute heart failure (AHF) patients using intravenous diuretic (IV) and makes a guiding contribution to the titration decision. It is not clear whether spot urine sodium measurement has the same clinical value as the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) drugs on urinary electrolytes. Our aim in our study is to investigate the clinical value of sodium examination in spot urine in AHF patients while using SGLT2i. Methods: Our study was conducted retrospectively and single-centered. AHF patients, administered IV diuretics were included in the study. Patients who were using and were not using SGLT2i were examined in two groups. The 2nd and 6th-hour sodium values in spot urine were measured. Results: Patients using SGLT2i (n = 46) and not using it (n = 54) were included. The mean age was 69.91 ± 11.84 years and 47% were female. The standard deviation value for the sodium in spot urine in patients using SGLT2i was clearly high and its distribution was significantly higher. A weak correlation was found between the sodium value in spot urine and the 24-hour urine volume in this group. Hospitalization history within 1 month after discharge was found to be 39% in the group using SGLT2i, and 51% in the group that did not use it, and this difference was statistically significant. Conclusions: The measurement of sodium in spot urine does not seem to have the same clinical value in HF patients using SGLT2i. Its correlation with urine volume is also decreasing in this group.

Curcumin supplementation prevents cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity: a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled trial.

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity (CIN) remains the most prevailing unfavorable influence and may affect its clinical usage. This study sought to explore the possible impacts of curcumin on preventing CIN in human subjects. The investigation was a placebo-controlled, double-blinded, randomized clinical trial conducted on 82 patients receiving nano-curcumin (80 mg twice daily for five days) or an identical placebo with standard nephroprotective modalities against CIN. Data was gathered on patients' demographics, blood, urinary nitrogen, creatinine (Cr) levels, urinary electrolytes, and urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) levels in treatment and placebo groups, 24 h and five days after initiating the administration of cisplatin. Both investigation groups were alike considering the demographic characteristics and clinical baseline data. Curcumin administration led to a significant improvement in blood-urine nitrogen (BUN). BUN, Cr, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and the ratio of NGAL-to-Cr considerably altered during the follow-up periods. However, the further alterations in other indices, including urinary sodium, potassium, magnesium, NGAL values, and potassium-to-Cr ratio were not statistically noteworthy. The significant differences in the NGAL-to-Cr ratio between the two groups may indicate the potential protective impact of curcumin supplementation against tubular toxicity. Curcumin management was safe and well-accepted; only insignificant gastrointestinal side effects were reported. Curcumin supplementation may have the potential to alleviate CIN and urinary electrolyte wasting in cancer patients. Future research investigating the effects of a longer duration of follow-up, a larger participant pool, and a higher dosage of curcumin are recommended.

Biochemical test as an efficient system to improve safety in parenteral nutrition for premature infants

ObjectiveThe biochemical test validation process of parenteral nutrition bags is described to verify the correct composition of critical compounds before its administration, as well as its impact on safety after two years since its implantation in a population of premature infants. MethodFor the validation of the technique, 35 samples of parenteral nutrition without lipids were processed by the emergency laboratory, following the routine procedures used to measure the concentrations of glucose and electrolytes in plasma and urine. To analyze its impact on safety, pre-implantation and post-implantation risk analysis was carried out using failure mode, effects and criticality analysis (FMECA). Likewise, all out-of-range results and their potential repercussions on patient safety were evaluated. ResultsRegression analysis showed no systematic measurement error for glucose, calcium and potassium; however, there is a constant systematic error for sodium and magnesium, thus both were discarded for routine analysis. Failure mode, effects and criticality analysis results showed a decrease in the risk of the process of 11% for the biochemical test. We tested 1,734 parenteral nutritions from 218 premature neonates; 58 (3.3%) results were out of the acceptance range, and 7 were considered to be potentially dangerous compounding errors. ConclusionsThe biochemical test of glucose and electrolytes is an efficient and reproducible method that prevents possible compounding errors from reaching the patient.

Exercise-Induced Fluid Retention, Cardiac Volume Overload, and Peripheral Edema in Ultra-Distance Cyclists

IntroductionUltracyclists expose themselves to extreme physical challenges. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of ultracycling on electrolyte and fluid balance and investigate the potential occurrence of peripheral edema. MethodsSerial laboratory analyses of blood and urine, bioelectrical impedance analyses and echocardiography were performed at four time points during a six-day bicycle ride in 13 ultracyclists (5 female, 8 male). Throughout the ride, participants continuously tracked fluid intake, measured extremity circumferences daily, and self-tested urinary electrolytes using a point-of-care testing device. Portrait photos were judged by 20 physicians for occurrence of facial and eyelid edema. ResultsParticipants covered a mean distance of 1,205 km and 19,417 vertical meters. From baseline to day 6, body weight remained stable (p = 0.479), but body composition changed with increasing total body water (+1.98 L ± 1.37, p = 0.003) and plasma volume (+18.86 % ± 10.7, p < 0.001). A significant increase in NT-proBNP (+297.99 ng/L ± 190.42, p < 0.001) until day 6 indicates concomitant cardiac volume overload. Swelling of face and eyelids peaked on day 5 (both p ≤ 0.033). On recovery, changes partly resolved. While urinary sodium concentration showed a nadir on day 4 (-32.18 mmol/L ± 23.88, p = 0.022), plasma osmolality (+5.69 mmosmol/kg ± 5.88, p = 0.004) and copeptin (+38.28 pg/mL ± 18.90, p < 0.001) increased steadily until day 6. ConclusionUltracycling over multiple days induces extracellular volume expansion, peripheral edema and cardiac volume overload. Renal sodium and water retention is likely contributing to this condition.