Hypothalamic dysfunction; a review of experimental and clinical observation of cardiac and renal aspects.

The nuclear cell masses of the hypothalamus act as autonomic regulators for visceromotor function. Through the correlation of impulses arising in or about the hypothalamus with the changes in cellular chemistry, there is provided, by mediation of the endocrines, a balanced control of water metabolism, renal function and cardiac action. Derangement of hypothalamic regulation causes specific clinical syndromes described by the general term "diencephalohypophyseal dystrophy." Cardiac abnormalities attributable to hypothalamic dysfunction include alterations in rate and various arrhythmias. Alteration in renal function includes hematuria, polyuria or relative anuria, and specific effects on electrolyte and nitrogen output.