Acid-base disorders pathophysiology

Acid-base disorders are common, and often serious, disturbances that may result in significant morbidity and mortality. This chapter reviews the mechanisms responsible for the maintenance of acid-base balance and the laboratory analyses that aid clinicians in their assessment of acid-base disorders. The pathophysiology of the four primary acid-base disturbances is presented, the therapeutic options are critiqued, and guidelines for the achievement of the desired therapeutic outcomes are presented. Because many drugs affect acid-base homeostasis and many acid-base abnormalities are potentially preventable, clinicians must anticipate drug-related problems in order to avoid or minimize the clinical consequences, and when necessary design appropriate treatment regimens. 

Sterns RH, Narins RG. Hypernatremia and hyponatremia Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy. In Androgue HJ, ed. Contemporary Management in Critical Care, Vol. 1, No. 2. Acid-Base and Electrolyte Disorders. New York, Churchill Livingstone, 1991 161-191. 

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