Clinical Physiology of Metabolic Acidosis

Abstract

Metabolic acidosis may occur in various clinical settings; however, the common basic pathogenic mechanism is a net gain of strong acids to body fluids.

In discussing the nature of mechanisms which counter the effects of the accession of a strong acid, the authors designate two basically distinct groups: (1) physicochemical and (2) physiologic.

The physicochemical events constitute the first line of defense against drastic decreases in the pH of body fluids.

By reducing the concentration of carbonic acid, respiratory responses ameliorate the fall in blood pH and thus create a second line of defense.

The ultimate correction of metabolic acidosis must be accomplished by the kidney.