What are the laboratory differences between Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone secretion (SIADH) and Cerebral Salt Wasting (CSW)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 10, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for SIADH vs CSW Labs

  • Single most likely diagnosis:
    • SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion): This is the most likely diagnosis given the labs, as SIADH is characterized by elevated ADH levels leading to water retention, hyponatremia, and concentrated urine, which matches the typical lab findings.
  • Other Likely diagnoses:
    • CSW (Cerebral Salt Wasting): Although less common than SIADH, CSW can also present with hyponatremia and is often considered in the differential diagnosis, especially in patients with cerebral disorders. The key distinction lies in the volume status and renal sodium handling.
    • Hypothyroidism: This condition can lead to hyponatremia due to decreased cardiac output and increased ADH secretion. It's a common enough condition to be considered in the differential.
  • Do Not Miss diagnoses:
    • Adrenal Insufficiency: This is a critical diagnosis not to miss, as it can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. Adrenal insufficiency can cause hyponatremia due to the lack of aldosterone, leading to impaired renal sodium retention.
    • Heart Failure: Although heart failure typically presents with volume overload, it can also lead to hyponatremia due to increased ADH secretion and decreased renal perfusion. Missing this diagnosis could lead to inappropriate treatment.
  • Rare diagnoses:
    • Nephrogenic Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis (NSIAD): A rare condition characterized by an inappropriate increase in urine concentration due to increased sensitivity to ADH, leading to hyponatremia.
    • Reset Osmostat: A rare condition where the osmoregulatory mechanism is reset, leading to a new equilibrium for sodium levels, often resulting in chronic hyponatremia without typical signs of volume overload or depletion.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.