INFLUENCES OF DEPLETION OF POTASSIUM, OF SODIUM, OR OF WATER ON FUNCTION AND STRUCTURE OF THE KIDNEY

[摘要] Sublethal potassium losses were produced in rabbits by the repeated administration of theobromine. In experimental periods of 1 week, no significant decrease in the maximal concentrating ability of the kidneys, in creatinine urine:plasma (U:P) ratio and in creafinine clearance were observed, neither were histologic alterations evident.See table in the PDF fileProlongation of potassium deficiency (after theobromine-induced depletion) to 2-3 weeks by feeding a diet poor in potassium, reduced rabbits' ability to produce maximally concentrated urine, moderately decreased the creatinine clearance and induced damage in the renal collecting ducts and, subsequently, a striking dilatation of distal tubules. Presence or absence of metabolic alkalosis had no effect on renal alterations in potassium-depleted animals. Relations of structural (renal and myocardial) and functional alterations are discussed.Sodium depletion reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and concentrating ability much more than experimental potassium depletion. The defect in the concentrating mechanism is refractory to vasopressin both in sodium and in potassium depletion. Histologic changes accompanying sodium depletion consist in hydropic degeneration of the proximal convoluted tubules.

[学科分类] 儿科学