Differential Rates of Diffusion of Mannitol from Phases of Extracellular Compartment in Edematous States ∗ †

Abstract

Conclusions

1. The plasma clearance of mannitol observed during morning hours was significantly decreased in this series of cases of cirrhosis with ascites and congestive heart failure with edema. 2. Rates of diffusion of mannitol from various recesses of the extracellular compartment were not uniform in two -edematous states, namely, cirrhosis with ascites and congestive heart failure with edema. 3. The mannitol method as determined by the infusion-slope procedure cannot be applied to the measurement of the extracellular fluid compartment in certain edematous states.