Small cell carcinoma of the lung with persistent hyponatremia.
Sample Solution
Paraneoplastic syndromes are a group of rare disorders that occur when cancer cells produce hormones or other substances that harm the body's organs and tissues. These syndromes can cause a variety of symptoms, including hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood).
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a type of lung cancer that is known to cause a variety of paraneoplastic syndromes, including hyponatremia. The most common paraneoplastic syndrome associated with SCLC is <b>syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH)</b>.
Full Answer Section
SIADH is a condition in which the body produces too much antidiuretic hormone (ADH). ADH is a hormone that causes the kidneys to retain water. In people with SIADH, the kidneys retain too much water, which can lead to hyponatremia.
Symptoms of SIADH
Symptoms of SIADH include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Seizures
- Coma
Diagnosis of SIADH
SIADH is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and physical examination.
Treatment of SIADH
The treatment of SIADH depends on the underlying cause. If the SIADH is caused by SCLC, then treating the cancer is the most important step. Other treatments for SIADH include:
- Fluid restriction
- Medications to block the effects of ADH
- Diuretics (medications that help the kidneys remove water from the body)
Conclusion
SIADH is a paraneoplastic syndrome that can occur in people with SCLC. SIADH is caused by the production of too much ADH, which causes the kidneys to retain water. The symptoms of SIADH include headache, nausea and vomiting, confusion, fatigue, seizures, and coma. SIADH is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and physical examination. The treatment of SIADH depends on the underlying cause. If the SIADH is caused by SCLC, then treating the cancer is the most important step. Other treatments for SIADH include fluid restriction, medications to block the effects of ADH, and diuretics.