In a road traffic accident (RTA) with hypovolemia, which hormone is secreted in response to decreased blood flow to the kidney?

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Last updated: June 5, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Research

In a road traffic accident with hypovolemia, the primary hormone secreted in response to decreased blood flow to the kidney is aldosterone, as part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) which is crucial for maintaining blood pressure and organ perfusion. When blood volume decreases due to hemorrhage or fluid loss, renal perfusion drops, triggering the release of renin, which then initiates the RAAS cascade, ultimately leading to the release of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex, as supported by studies on the regulation of aldosterone and its effects on the body 1, 2, 3. The correct answer is B. ADH is also released in response to hypovolemia, but the primary hormone secreted in response to decreased blood flow to the kidney as part of the RAAS is aldosterone. Some key points to consider:

  • The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a crucial role in maintaining blood pressure during hypovolemic shock.
  • Aldosterone promotes sodium and water retention to restore blood volume, which is essential for maintaining organ perfusion during the acute phase of hypovolemic shock following trauma.
  • Prolonged activation of the RAAS can lead to complications if the underlying blood loss is not addressed through appropriate fluid resuscitation and hemorrhage control, as noted in studies on the effects of aldosterone dysregulation 2 and the importance of considering sodium status in the treatment of cardiovascular and renal damage 3. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2017, which highlights the importance of aldosterone in regulating Na-Cl reabsorption and blood pressure 1. Overall, the primary hormone secreted in response to decreased blood flow to the kidney in a road traffic accident with hypovolemia is aldosterone, as part of the RAAS.

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