Describe the diagnostic approch.
Seen in alveolar hypoventilation; see also “Respiratory insufficiency.”
Establish the expected chronicity based on clinical presentation using the following rule:
HCO3- increases by 1 mEq/L for every 10 mm Hg increase in PCO2 above 40 mm Hg: suggests acute respiratory acidosis
HCO3- increases by 4–5 mEq/L for every 10 mm Hg increase in PCO2 above 40 mm Hg: suggests chronic respiratory acidosis
Expected and measured HCO3- values may differ if additional metabolic disturbances are present; see “Compensation (acid-base).”
Etiology.
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