Recurrent Hyponatremia in the Setting of Autoimmune Disease with Sicca Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease associated with xerostomia and xerophthalmia. The association of Sjogren’s with hyponatremia has rarely been reported and has been attributed to syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion. Here, we report a case of polydipsia secondary to xerostomia as a cause of chronic hyponatremia in the setting of Sjogren’s syndrome. Analysis of the patient’s medical record, including medication reconciliation and dietary habits, revealed several underlying causes of her recurrent hyponatremia. A thorough review of the patient’s clinical history and good bedside examination may reduce prolonged hospitalizations and improve the quality of life of a hyponatremic population of patients who are predominantly elderly.

Keywords

• hyponatremia
• osmolality
• polydipsia
• syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone
• xerostomia