The Value and Validity of Base Excess_ECF in Perinatal Acid-Base Studies

Abstract

Base excess (BE) corresponding to the mean BE of the extracellular fluid may be obtained from the Hb 5 line in the Siggaard-Andersen nomogram. By comparing this BE_ECF with a BE_ECF calculated from pH, Pco₂ and plasma protein and haemoglobin concentration values, it was found that the nomogram was as valid for foetal as for maternal blood. In contrast to BE_B′ BE_ECF showed no statistical correlation to Pco₂ and is therefore a preferable parameter for the metabolic component of the acid-base balance.

Key Words:

• Acid-base equilibrium
• foetal blood