Central Diabetes Insipidus - General Discussion

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

Central diabetes insipidus (CDI) is a rare disorder characterized by excessive thirst (polydipsia) and excessive urination (polyuria). It is not related to the more common diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes), in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. CDI is a distinct disorder caused by complete or partial deficiency of the arginine protein, vasopressin (AVP), which is required by the kidneys to manage water balance in the body. If affected individuals do not have access to water, dehydration may occur. Eventually, more serious symptoms can develop including changes in consciousness and confusion associated with dehydration and elevation in serum sodium concentration (hypertonic dehydration). CDI may be caused by any condition that affects the creation, transport or release of vasopressin. CDI may be inherited or acquired. In some cases, no cause can be identified (idiopathic).

This is an abstract of a report from the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. (NORD). A copy of the complete report can be obtained for a small fee by visiting the NORD website. The complete report contains additional information including symptoms, causes, affected population, related disorders, standard and investigational treatments (if available), and references from medical literature. For a full-text version of this topic, see http://www.rarediseases.org/search/rdblist.html

The information provided in this report is not intended for diagnostic purposes. It is provided for informational purposes only. NORD recommends that affected individuals seek the advice or counsel of their own personal physicians.

It is possible that the title of this topic is not the name you selected. Please check the Synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and Disorder Subdivision(s) covered by this report

This disease entry is based upon medical information available through the date at the end of the topic. Since NORD's resources are limited, it is not possible to keep every entry in the Rare Disease Database completely current and accurate. Please check with the agencies listed in the Resources section for the most current information about this disorder.

For additional information and assistance about rare disorders, please contact the National Organization for Rare Disorders at P.O. Box 1968, Danbury, CT 06813-1968; phone (203) 744-0100; web site www.rarediseases.org or email orphan@rarediseases.org

Last Updated: 4/13/2007
Copyright 2007National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc.

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