MCQ – 90685

Correct Answer � D Explanation

Fresh water drowning is associated with both hyperkalemia and hyponatremia.

Pathophysiology:

• When fresh water (hypotonic to plasma) enters the alveolar spaces, it is rapidly absorbed into the pulmonary circulation resulting in gross local haemodilution.

• This massive increase in blood volume leads to hemolysis with liberation of  potassium. This causes hyperkalemia with corresponding hyponatremia.