Alkalosis

Last updated: Wednesday, 27, October, 2010
CausesAppropriate Tests

Blood gases; electrolytes, anion gap. See also Acidosis.

Metabolic alkalosis  

Defined as alkalosis with a positive base excess and increased bicarbonate.

Volume (chloride) depletion, especially

  • Vomiting
  • Gastric drainage
  • Diuretic therapy

Adrenocortical hyperfunction, especially

Severe potassium depletion

See under Hypokalaemia.

Excessive alkali intake

Compensatory

In primary respiratory acidosis.

Respiratory alkalosis

Defined as alkalosis with decreased pCO2.

Hyperventilation, especially

  • Functional
  • Salicylate poisoning
  • Neurological disorders



Salicylate.

Compensatory

In primary metabolic acidosis.