Wallach's Interpretation of Diagnostic Tests: Pathways to Arriving at a Clinical Diagnosis (740 page)

   Together with pH determination, bicarbonate measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of numerous potentially serious disorders associated with acid–base imbalance in the respiratory and metabolic systems. Some of these conditions are diarrhea, renal tubular acidosis, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, hyperkalemic acidosis, renal failure, and ketoacidosis.

   Interpretation

Increased In

   Primary metabolic alkalosis

   Primary respiratory acidosis

   Severe vomiting

   Lung disease (COPD)

   Cushing syndrome

   Diuretics

   Primary hyperaldosteronism

   Laxative abuse

Decreased In

   Primary metabolic acidosis

   Primary respiratory alkalosis

   Addison disease

   Ethylene glycol or methanol poisoning