Effect of hypothalamic lesions on renal excretion of sodium

Abstract

Electrolytic hypothalamic lesions in the area of the paraventricular nuclei were followed by a threefold increase in urinary sodium excretion during the 24-hour period after operation. Renal denervation or bilateral adrenalectomy did not modify this response. Total hypophysectomy reduced but did not abolish the natriuresis. Paraventricular lesions reversed the antinatriuresis which normally follows depletion of extracellular fluid volume. The lesions had no apparent effect on potassium excretion.