Does Hyponatremia have a Value in the Diagnosis of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis in HIV-1 Infected Patients in Cambodia?

Hyponatremia is a frequent finding in hospitalised HIV-patients. The diagnosis of extra-pulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is difficult in resource-limited settings, causing delays in treatment. In this cross-sectional study based on hospital chart review in a charity hospital in Cambodia we found that hyponatremia (serum sodium < 134 meq/L) was significantly associated with a diagnosis of EPTB in HIV-positive adults. Our findings suggest that hyponatremia in patients with advanced stage of HIV disease should trigger a diagnostic work-up for EPTB.