A Quick Reference on Hyperchloremic Metabolic Acidosis

This article reviews hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis in small animals, a condition characterized by decreased blood pH and bicarbonate concentration, accompanied by a compensatory increase in PCO₂. Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis arises from chloride retention, excessive sodium loss relative to chloride, or excessive chloride gain relative to sodium. Clinical manifestations are typically related to the underlying disease causing the acidosis. Management focuses on identifying and correcting the primary disorder, while alkalinizing therapy may be considered in severe or refractory cases.