Metabolic alkalosis Flashcards
1
Q
what is the electrolyte cause of metabolic alkalosis
A
loss of hydrogen ions OR gain of bicarbonate
2
Q
Problems with which areas of the body commonly cause a metabolic alkalosis?
A
It is due mainly to problems of the kidney or gastrointestinal tract
3
Q
Specific causes of metabolic alkalosis
A
vomiting / aspiration
diuretics
liquorice, carbenoxolone
hypokalaemia
primary hyperaldosteronism
Cushing’s syndrome
Bartter’s syndrome
4
Q
Mechanism of development of metabolic alkalosis
A
- activation of RAAS
- aldosterone causes reabsorption of Na+ in exchange for H+ in the distal convoluted tubule
E.g. ECF depletion (vomiting, diuretics) → Na+ and Cl- loss → activation of RAAS → raised aldosterone levels
hypokalaemia, K+ shift from cells → ECF, alkalosis is caused by shift of H+ into cells to maintain neutrality
5
Q
A