Ectopic ADH secretion

Definition

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a substance produced naturally by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. The hormone controls the amount of water your body eliminates.

Ectopic ADH secretion is the release of ADH from an abnormal location within the body. Ectopic means "out of place."

Causes

The most common cause of ectopic ADH secretion is cancer.

See also:

• Syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion (SIADH)
• ADH test

Symptoms

The abnormal release of ADH makes it harder for the body to remove water. Fluid builds-up in the body. Low blood sodium levels (hyponatremia) can occur.

Lin M, Liu SJ, Lim, IT. Disorders of Water Imbalance. Emerg Med Clin North Am - 2005 Aug; 23(3); 749-770.