Journal of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (202) 780-3397

Opinion Article - Journal of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (2024) Volume 6, Issue 2

Exploring metabolic acidosis origins, indicators, and therapies

Nouro Shaz*

Department of Medicine, St Elizabeth's Medical Center, USA

*Corresponding Author:
Nouro Shaz
Department of Medicine, St Elizabeth's Medical Center, USA
St Elizabeth's Medical Center
USA
E-mail:nour.shaz@edu

Received:24-Mar-2024, Manuscript No. AACPLM-24-131373; Editor assigned: 27-Mar-2024, PreQC No. AACPLM-24-131373 (PQ); Reviewed:10-Apr-2024, QC No. AACPLM-24-131373; Revised:15-Apr-2024, Manuscript No. AACPLM-24-131373 (R); Published:22-Apr-2024, DOI:10.35841/ aacplm-6.2.205

Citation: Shaz N. Exploring metabolic acidosis origins, indicators, and therapies. J Clin Path Lab Med. 2024;6(2):205

Introduction

Metabolic acidosis is a medical condition characterized by an imbalance in the body's acid-base equilibrium, resulting in an accumulation of acid or a loss of bicarbonate. This disruption in pH regulation can lead to various health complications if left untreated. In this article, we delve into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for metabolic acidosis[1, 2].

The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's acid-base balance by excreting acids and reabsorbing bicarbonate. Dysfunction of the kidneys can impair this process, leading to metabolic acidosis. Uncontrolled diabetes can result in the production of ketones, which are acidic by-products of fat metabolism. Accumulation of ketones in the blood can contribute to metabolic acidosis, a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis[3, 4].

Certain medical conditions, such as sepsis, liver disease, or prolonged exercise, can lead to the accumulation of lactic acid in the bloodstream, causing metabolic acidosis. Consumption of methanol, ethylene glycol (found in antifreeze), or salicylates (found in aspirin) can lead to metabolic acidosis[5].

Conditions such as diarrhoea or renal tubular acidosis can result in excessive loss of bicarbonate, contributing to metabolic acidosis. Diagnosing metabolic acidosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Blood tests, including arterial blood gas analysis and serum electrolyte levels, can help assess the pH balance and identify underlying metabolic abnormalities. Additional tests, such as urine analysis and imaging studies, may be conducted to determine the underlying cause of the acid-base imbalance [6, 7].

Intravenous fluids containing bicarbonate or lactate may be administered to correct dehydration and replenish bicarbonate levels in the bloodstream. Managing underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or poisoning, is essential in resolving metabolic acidosis. In some cases, medications like insulin (for diabetic ketoacidosis) or sodium bicarbonate may be prescribed to normalize blood pH levels[8].

For severe cases of metabolic acidosis due to kidney failure, dialysis may be necessary to remove excess acids and restore electrolyte balance. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet and exercise, can help prevent metabolic acidosis and its complications in individuals at risk[9].

Metabolic acidosis is a serious medical condition that requires prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent potential complications. By understanding the underlying causes, symptoms, and treatment options for metabolic acidosis, individuals can take proactive measures to maintain their overall health and well-being. If you experience any symptoms suggestive of metabolic acidosis, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly for proper evaluation and management[10].

References

  1. Lim S. Metabolic acidosis. Acta Med Indones. 2007;39(3):145-50.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar

  2. Kraut JA, Madias NE. Metabolic acidosis: pathophysiology, diagnosis and management. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2010;6(5):274-85.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Robergs RA, Ghiasvand F, Parker D. Biochemistry of exercise-induced metabolic acidosis. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2004.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Kraut JA, Madias NE. Treatment of acute metabolic acidosis: a pathophysiologic approach. Nat Rev Nephrol. 2012;8(10):589-601.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Kraut JA, Madias NE. Metabolic acidosis of CKD: an update. Am J Kidney Dis. 2016;67(2):307-17.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Adeva MM, Souto G. Diet-induced metabolic acidosis. Clin Nutr. 2011;30(4):416-21.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Kraut JA, Kurtz I. Metabolic acidosis of CKD: diagnosis, clinical characteristics, and treatment. Am J Kidney Dis. 2005;45(6):978-93.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. Gauthier PM, Szerlip HM. Metabolic acidosis in the intensive care unit. Crit Care Clin. 2002;18(2):289-308.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  9. Levraut J, Grimaud D. Treatment of metabolic acidosis. Curr Opin Crit Care. 2003;9(4):260-5.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Raphael KL. Metabolic acidosis and subclinical metabolic acidosis in CKD. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2018;29(2):376-82.

    11. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

Get the App