[Problems of acid-base equilibrium of the organism]

The physiopathology, clinical aspects and diagnosis of changes in Acid-Base balance are reviewed. Balance depends on diet, metabolism and efficiency of the emunctory organs (intestinal, renal and respiratory). Changes in Acid-Base balance are more frequent than is commonly thought and are also seen in out-patients whose general condition is not serious. Specific diagnosis is based exclusively on blood measurement of pH, PCO2 and HCO3. It is necessary and sufficient for the physician to remember to carry out these studies more often. It is thus possible to identify and correct initial situations of altered A-B balance which, if ignored, may aggravate general condition to a sometimes fatal extent.