Following a car collision, paramedics transport a 23-year-old man to the emergency room. He was an unconstrained front-seat passenger. His fluid volume and plasma osmolarity are measured several days after his admission and are depicted in the figure below (solid line, normal; dotted line, patient). Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause the findings shown in the image?

Question

Following a car collision, paramedics transport a 23-year-old man to the emergency room. He was an unconstrained front-seat passenger. His fluid volume and plasma osmolarity are measured several days after his admission and are depicted in the figure below (solid line, normal; dotted line, patient).  Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause the findings shown in the image?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Volume contraction and expansion can be classified as isosmotic, hyposmotic, or hyperosmotic. The loss of free water causes hyperosmotic volume contraction (with retention of electrolytes). It can happen in people with diabetes insipidus or as a result of a lack of fluids or excessive perspiration.

Following a Car Collision, Paramedics Transport a 23-Year-Old Man to the Emergency