Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2025

Establishment of an Extracellular Acidic pH Culture System
Published on: November 19, 2017
How to work up an adult patient with metabolic acidosis
Gurkirpal S Bajwa1, Asif Hussain2, Muhammad M Javaid2,3,4
1Department of Medicine, Bunbury Regional Hospital, Bunbury, Australia.
Abstract:
Metabolic acidosis is a common complication among acutely unwell hospitalised patients. Untreated, it can result in undesirable cardiovascular, respiratory and neurological consequences. Metabolic acidosis can occur as an isolated entity or coexist with other acid-base disorders, making diagnosing the aetiology difficult. Accurate identification of the underlying cause is imperative for proper and timely management. A systematic approach can help simplify the assessment of patients and can aid in establishing the correct diagnosis, even in more complex cases. This article provides a practical, step-by-step guide for the assessment of adult patients with metabolic acidosis.
Related Concept Videos
Diagnosing Acidosis and Alkalosis
First, the pH level is assessed to determine whether the blood pH is normal (7.35–7.45), low (acidosis), or high (alkalosis).
Next, the PCO2 and...
Disorders of Acid-Base Balance
Respiratory Acidosis and Alkalosis
Respiratory acidosis occurs due to an increase in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide PCO2 in the blood. It often arises from shallow breathing or impaired gas exchange caused by...
Blood Studies I: ABG and VBG
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG)
Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) studies are crucial for assessing the lungs' ability to supply oxygen and remove carbon dioxide, reflecting the patient's ventilation status. They also help understand the kidneys' capacity to...
Bronsted-Lowry Acids and Bases
Titration of Polyprotic Base with a Strong Acid
Compensation Mechanisms
Respiratory Compensation
This mechanism addresses metabolic-induced pH imbalances by adjusting breathing rates. Respiratory compensation begins within minutes of detecting a pH...

