The Strong Ion Approach to Acid Base - How to and Why

摘要

Acid base and electrolyte disturbances are frequently encountered in animals with different diseases. The signs of the underlying disease often overshadow clinical manifestation of acid base and electrolyte abnormalities. Only very severe disturbancesare fatal, but mild to moderate disturbances can also lead to complications and prolonged recovery times from the underlying disease(s). Correcting acid base and electrolyte abnormalities has a clinical and physiological benefit and should therefore beundertaken. To correct disturbances, these have to be diagnosed correctly. There are several approaches to determining the acid base and electrolyte status of a patient. Initial traditional approaches mainly focused on bicarbonate and hydrogen ions as the major parameters deranged, while quantitative approaches, such as the strong ion approach yield more accurate assessments and allow understanding of underlying pathologic causes.