Desmopressin use prior to renal transplant biopsy—does it fit?

Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), a selective agonist of type 2 vasopressin receptors, is sometimes used prior to percutaneous renal biopsy to reduce the risk of bleeding complications. DDAVP increases free water reabsorption in renal collecting ducts, potentially leading to water intoxication or dilutional hyponatraemia. We present two cases, where DDAVP was used prior to percutaneous renal transplant biopsy and was associated with severe hyponatraemia and neurological sequelae. With DDAVP being advocated in many centres prior to percutaneous renal biopsy, these cases highlight the need for increased awareness regarding side effects. In this report, we provide suggestions on strategies to minimize hyponatraemia in this context.