Name
Chamberlain University
CHEM-120 Intro to General, Organic & Biological Chemistry
Prof. Name
Date
Throughout my study of chemistry, I have developed a deeper understanding of the fundamental concept of acid-base equilibrium. This concept has enabled me to better comprehend the article by Nolen-Walston and Sharkey (2023) titled “Acid Trip: Let’s retire the terms ‘disproportionate hyper/hypochloremia’ for electrolyte-based acid-base derangements.” The authors argue that the term “disproportionate hyper/hypochloremia,” which has been traditionally used to describe electrolyte-based acid-base derangements, is outdated and inaccurate.
Acid-base equilibrium refers to the balance between acids and bases in a solution. The pH scale, ranging from 0 to 14, is used to measure the acidity or basicity of a solution. A pH of 7 represents neutrality, values below 7 indicate acidity, and values above 7 indicate basicity. Maintaining the proper pH balance in the body is crucial for health and normal functioning.
Electrolytes, particularly chloride, play a vital role in regulating the body’s pH balance. An imbalance in electrolytes can disrupt acid-base equilibrium, leading to serious health consequences. For instance, disturbances in chloride concentration can cause acid-base derangements, which affect the overall physiological stability of the body.
Nolen-Walston and Sharkey (2023) emphasize that the term “disproportionate hyper/hypochloremia” does not accurately describe these conditions. Instead, they recommend replacing this terminology with more precise terms such as hyperchloremic acidosis and hypochloremic alkalosis. By adopting accurate terminology, clinicians can better diagnose, manage, and treat electrolyte imbalances, which ultimately leads to improved patient outcomes.
| Outdated Term | Recommended Term | Clinical Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Disproportionate Hyperchloremia | Hyperchloremic Acidosis | More precise description of acid-base disorder caused by elevated chloride |
| Disproportionate Hypochloremia | Hypochloremic Alkalosis | More accurate identification of imbalance linked to reduced chloride levels |
The study of acid-base equilibrium enhances our understanding of how electrolytes influence body pH and related health outcomes. By moving away from outdated terms and adopting more accurate clinical terminology, healthcare professionals can provide more effective diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients experiencing electrolyte-based acid-base derangements.
Bauer, R. C., Birk, J. P., & Marks, P. (2019). Introduction to chemistry. McGraw-Hill Education.
Nolen-Walston, R., & Sharkey, L. C. (2023). Acid trip: Let’s retire the terms “disproportionate hyper/hypochloremia” for electrolyte based acid–base derangements. Veterinary Clinical Pathology, 52(2), 204–207. https://doi.org/10.1111/vcp.13264
