Various factors can affect ADH production, thereby disturbing the body's water balance. For example, alcohol consumption reduces ADH production by direct action on the brain, resulting in a temporarily increased production of urine. The reverse effect of water retention can result from temporarily increased ADH production after a major operation or accident. Water retention may also be caused by the secretion of ADH by some tumors, especially of the lung. The test requires collection of a blood sample.
Primary symptoms are excessive urination and constant thirst.
Further Reading Books Jacobs, David S. Laboratory Test Handbook, 4th ed. Lexi-Comp Inc., 1996. Pagana, Kathleen Deska. Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests. Mosby, Inc., 1998.