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Related Concept Videos

Diagnosing Acidosis and Alkalosis01:24

Diagnosing Acidosis and Alkalosis

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Diagnosing acid-base imbalances involves systematically analyzing arterial blood samples, focusing on three key measurements: pH, bicarbonate (HCO3−) concentration, and carbon dioxide partial pressure (PCO2). This analysis follows a four-step process that helps identify the imbalance's underlying cause and nature.
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...
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Disorders of Acid-Base Balance01:29

Disorders of Acid-Base Balance

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The human body maintains a precise pH range of arterial blood between 7.35 and 7.45. Deviations result in either acidosis (pH < 7.35) or alkalosis (pH > 7.45). These conditions are further classified as respiratory or metabolic disorders based on their underlying cause.
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...
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Renal Regulation of Acid-Base Balance01:29

Renal Regulation of Acid-Base Balance

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Metabolic reactions in the body produce nonvolatile acids, such as sulfuric acid, which generate an acid load of approximately 1 mEq of H+ per kilogram of body weight daily. Excreting H+ in the urine is essential to balance this acid load.
In the kidneys, cells within the proximal convoluted tubules (PCT) and the collecting ducts secrete hydrogen ions (H+) into the tubular fluid. Specifically, in the PCT, Na+/H+ antiporters secrete H+ while reabsorbing Na+.
However, the intercalated cells in...
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Acid-Base Balance01:25

Acid-Base Balance

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The human body maintains a narrow pH range regulated through acid-base balance. This balance is crucial as changes in the hydrogen ion concentration can disrupt cell membrane stability, alter protein structures, and change enzyme activities. The normal pH of arterial blood is 7.4, venous blood and interstitial fluid is 7.35, and intracellular fluid averages 7.0.
When the pH of arterial blood rises above 7.45, it results in a condition called alkalosis. Conversely, a drop below 7.35 leads to...
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Bicarbonate-Carbonic Acid Buffer01:22

Bicarbonate-Carbonic Acid Buffer

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The carbonic acid-bicarbonate buffer system is critical for maintaining the body's pH balance. It operates on the equilibrium:
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pH Homeostasis01:31

pH Homeostasis

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Acid-base homeostasis is essential for maintaining normal physiological activities in humans. The pH of various body fluids is strictly regulated because it is critical for the optimal activity of enzymes involved in metabolic reactions. Enzymes are basically proteins, so, any significant change in pH can affect their structure and activity. In humans, pH is regulated using three primary mechanisms— chemical buffer systems, respiratory regulation, and renal regulation.
Respiratory...
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Measurement and Analysis of Extracellular Acid Production to Determine Glycolytic Rate
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A Quick Reference on High Anion Gap Metabolic Acidosis.

Pia M Martiny1, Helio Autran de Morais1

  • 1Department of Clinical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.

The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice
|October 24, 2025
PubMed
Summary

High anion gap metabolic acidosis involves low blood pH and bicarbonate, caused by acid buildup like ketoacids or toxins. Treatment targets the underlying condition, not the acidosis itself.

Keywords:
Base excess (BE)Bicarbonate (HCO(3)(−))High anion gap (AG) acidosisMetabolic acidosisNormochloremic acidosisUnmeasured anions (UAs)

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Functional Characterization of Na+/H+ Exchangers of Intracellular Compartments Using Proton-killing Selection to Express Them at the Plasma Membrane
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Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Internal Medicine
  • Pathophysiology

Background:

  • High anion gap metabolic acidosis is a critical acid-base disturbance.
  • Characterized by decreased blood pH and bicarbonate with normal chloride levels.
  • Often associated with compensatory hypocapnia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the causes and management of high anion gap metabolic acidosis.
  • To highlight the importance of identifying the underlying etiology.
  • To differentiate clinical manifestations from the acidosis itself.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on metabolic acidosis.
  • Analysis of the biochemical pathways leading to acid accumulation.
  • Clinical case study review (implied).

Main Results:

  • Accumulation of strong acids (ketoacids, lactic acid, uremic acids) or toxins (ethylene glycol) is the primary cause.
  • Elevated inorganic phosphate can also contribute to the high anion gap.
  • Clinical signs are secondary to the root cause, not the acidosis.

Conclusions:

  • Management requires prompt identification and treatment of the primary disease process.
  • Understanding the specific acid or toxin is crucial for effective intervention.
  • Focusing on the underlying disorder ensures comprehensive patient care.