Electrolytes and Acid-Base Disorders

An array of chemical components is required by the human body for the reactions governing daily metabolic activities. Since, most of these reactions are interconnected, the concentration of the participating chemicals needs to be in ideal balance because any deviation from this may have adverse effects on various organs as well as organ systems. Subsequent to water, the electrolytes are highly significant in carrying out the chemical reactions of life. Apart from maintaining the osmotic balance and conducting electrical impulses across the cell membranes, they also aid in the release of vital hormones. This chapter discusses the ways in which the body maintains these critical balances. Several hormones like angiotensin, ADH (antidiuretic hormone), PTH (parathyroid hormone), and aldosterone regulate the electrolyte balance in the body along with hypothalamus and kidneys. The pH of bodily fluids such as blood is maintained between 7 and 7.5 by the acids and bases present in phosphates, bicarbonate ions, cellular proteins, plasma, hemoglobin, etc., in conjunction with electrolytes. Any deviation from the maintenance and regulation of acid-base and electrolyte homeostasis may lead to disorders like metabolic acidosis, alkalosis, ketosis with a major effect on kidneys and renal system. Along with the basic concepts, this chapter will provide insights into the current advances in the pathology, clinical presentation, and treatment of the disorders associated with the imbalances of these ions.