Metabolic alkalosis
LIFE-THREATENING DISORDERA clinical state marked by decreased amounts of acid or increased amounts of base bicarbonate, metabolic alkalosis causes metabolic, respiratory, and renal responses, producing characteristic symptoms—most notably, hypoventilation. This condition always occurs secondary to an underlying cause. With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, the prognosis is good; however, untreated metabolic alkalosis may lead to coma and death.
Causes
Metabolic alkalosis results from loss of acid, retention of base, or renal mechanisms associated with decreased serum levels of potassium and chloride.
Loss of acid
Causes of critical acid loss include vomiting, nasogastric tube drainage or lavage without adequate electrolyte replacement, fistulas, and the use of steroids and certain diuretics (furosemide, thiazides, and ethacrynic acid).
Hyperadrenocorticism is another cause of severe acid loss. Cushing’s disease, primary hyperaldosteronism, and Bartter’s syndrome, for example, all lead to retention of sodium and chloride and urinary loss of potassium and hydrogen.
Retention of base
Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
Full access? Get Clinical Tree
