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. 2023 Nov-Dec;19(10):104800.
doi: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2023.104800. Epub 2023 Oct 14.

Pseudohyponatremia: A Concise Guide to Diagnosis and Management in Clinical Practice

Michael Ballard  1 , Leon Chen  1
Affiliations

Pseudohyponatremia: A Concise Guide to Diagnosis and Management in Clinical Practice

Michael Ballard et al. J Nurse Pract. 2023 Nov-Dec.

Abstract

Pseudo-hyponatremia is an uncommon laboratory finding that can lead to serious morbidity and mortality if not recognized abruptly. Often linked to conditions like hyperlipidemia or hyperproteinemia, pseudohyponatremia can mislead clinicians and result in misdiagnosis. We discuss this through two real-world case studies, explaining how it develops and how to diagnose it accurately. It's paramount that clinicians recognize and properly differentiate pseudohyponatremia from true hyponatremia to prevent wrong treatments. We stress the need to address the root causes in order to provide the optimal patient care.

Keywords: Pseudohyponatremia; hyperproteinemia; hypertriglyceridemia; hyponatremia.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: None

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Reported Laboratory value comparison – Reprinted with permission
Figure 2
Figure 2
Diagnostic algorithm of Hyponatremia. Modified Scheme.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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