598 SEPr. 3, 1955 HYPERTONIC DEHYDRATION dose of water and then repeat the serum electrolyte examinations. If the water is not required in the pre-operative state it will rapidly be excreted, but if required it will be retained and the dilution effect described will take place.
SummaryIf water is lost in excess of extracellular electrolyte a state of hypertonic dehydration may be induced.In this condition the concentration of extracellular electrolytes may be normal or even above normal when the total quantity of electrolyte is decreased.In the post-operative phase oedema may result if water is given in excess.