The bicarbonate content of serum or plasma is a significant indicator of electrolyte dispersion and anion deficit. Together with pH determination, bicarbonate measurements are used in the diagnosis and treatment of numerous potentially serious disorders associated with an acid-base imbalance in the respiratory and metabolic systems. Hypercapnia means excessive carbon dioxide in the blood.
Increased levels may be observed in compensated respiratory acidosis and metabolic alkalosis. Causes include:
- Severe vomiting
- Lung diseases / respiratory failure including COPD
- Cushing or Conn syndrome
- Metabolic alkalosis
Reduced levels may be observed in compensated respiratory alkalosis and metabolic acidosis. Causes include:
- Hyperventilation
- Addison disease
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Metabolic acidosis
- Kidney disease – renal tubular acidosis
- Alcohol poisoning
- Salicylate overdose
