Differential diagnosis and management of patients with abdominal manifestations of hyponatremia

Abstract

Introduction. Hyponatremia is one of the most common electrolyte disorders in clinical practice and may present with a wide range of manifestations, from asymptomatic cases to severe neurological and gastrointestinal disturbances. Decreased serum sodium (Na⁺) levels can impair intestinal motility and lead to the development of intestinal pseudo-obstruction, creating significant diagnostic challenges.

Aim. This study analyzes the clinical features of hyponatremia with abdominal manifestations based on clinical cases and summarizes current literature data regarding the development of intestinal pseudo-obstruction in this electrolyte imbalance.

Materials and Methods. Two clinical cases of patients with severe hyponatremia accompanied by neurological symptoms and impaired intestinal motility with features of intestinal pseudo-obstruction were analyzed. Laboratory and instrumental investigations allowed exclusion of surgical pathology and established the association between clinical manifestations and severe electrolyte imbalance.

Results. Timely diagnosis and correction of hyponatremia resulted in regression of clinical symptoms and restoration of intestinal function.

Conclusions. The presented clinical cases emphasize the importance of assessing serum electrolyte levels in patients with abdominal symptoms and the need for differential diagnosis with acute surgical pathology of the abdominal organs.