Volume depletion is a common condition and a frequent cause of hospitalization in children. Proper assessment of the patient includes a detailed history and a thorough physical examination. Biochemical tests may be useful in selected cases. Understanding the pathophysiology of fluid balance is necessary for appropriate management. A clinical dehydration scale assessing more physical findings may help to determine dehydration severity. Most dehydrated children can be treated orally; however, intravenous therapy may be indicated in patients with severe volume depletion, in those who have failed oral therapy, or in children with altered consciousness or significant metabolic abnormalities. Proper management consists of restoring circulatory volume and electrolyte balance. In this paper, we review clinical aspects, diagnosis, and management of children with volume depletion.

Cleveland Clinic Akron General Medical Center Akron OH USA

Department of Pediatric Nephrology Akron Children's Hospital Cleveland OH USA

Department of Pediatrics 1st Faculty of Medicine Charles University Prague and Thomayer University Hospital Prague Czech Republic

Department of Pediatrics 2nd Faculty of Medicine Charles University and Motol University Hospital Prague Czech Republic

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