[Changes in plasma osmolality in patients in the most acute phase of a stroke].

Monitoring of plasma osmolality (PO) in patients with cerebral stroke revealed the most marked changes in hemorrhagic stroke. The presence of renal failure and hyperglycemia aggravated disorders of osmotic homeostasis. The value of PO adequately reflected the severity of the state of the patients. Stable hyperosmolality and an increase in the difference between the measured and calculated PO over 30 mOsm in the acutest phase of stroke were poor prognostic signs. Determination of PO along with other traditional tests (measurement of sodium, potassium, urea and glucose) yields important information for the correct treatment of patients in the acutest phase of cerebral stroke.