Effect of Moderate Hemorrhage in Humans on Plasma ADH and Renin

SummaryThe effect of a moderate hemorrhage on plasma antidiuretic hormone and plasma renin activity was studied in normal human blood donors. An average blood loss of 9.9% of estimated blood volume in 24 subjects caused no significant change in either plasma antidiuretic hormone or plasma renin activity. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate also were unchanged by the hemorrhage. It thus appears that the ADH response to hemorrhage in humans is no more sensitive than it is in the dog where often 10-20% of the estimated blood volume must be removed by hemorrhage before an increase in plasma ADH concentration is detectable. In addition, the data confirm previous reports which demonstrated that hemorrhage of this magnitude does not alter plasma renin activity.We express our appreciation to Dr. William L. Bayer, Director of the Community Blood Center of Greater Kansas City, for his kind cooperation and assistance with this study. We also wish to thank the nursing staff at the Center for their invaluable assistance. Expert technical assistance was provided by Mrs. Pamela Geer, Mrs. Mary Ann Hill, Dr. George Saba, and Mrs. Gloria Flora.Supported by a Grant from the Missouri Heart Association.