Post-Hypercapnic Alkalosis: A Brief Review

Electrolyte Blood Press. 2023 Jun;21(1):18-23. doi: 10.5049/EBP.2023.21.1.18. Epub 2023 Jun 27.ABSTRACTMetabolic alkalosis is a common acid-base imbalance frequently observed in intensive care unit (ICU) patients and is associated with increased mortality. Post-hypercarbia alkalosis (PHA) is a type of metabolic alkalosis caused by sustained high serum bicarbonate levels following a rapid resolution of hypoventilation in patients with chronic hypercapnia due to prolonged respiratory disturbance. Common causes of chronic hypercapnia include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), central nervous system disorders, neuromuscular disorders, and narcotic abuse. Rapid correction of hypercapnia through hyperventilation leads to a swift normalization of pCO2, which lacks renal compensation, consequently causing an increase in plasma HCO3- levels and severe metabolic alkalosis. Most of PHA occurs in the ICU setting requiring mechanical ventilation and can progress severe alkalemia due to secondary mineralocorticoid excess from volume depletion or decreased HCO3- excretion from decreased glomerular filtration rate and increased proximal tubular reabsorption. PHA is associated with increased ICU stay, ventilator dependency, and mortality. Acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, has been utilized for managing PHA by inducing alkaline diuresis and reducing tubular reabsorption of bicarbonate. While acetazolamide effectively improves alkalemia, its impact on hard outcomes may b...
Source: Electrolyte and Blood Pressure - Category: Internal Medicine Authors: Source Type: research