This chapter deals with acid-base homeostasis with special emphasis on the role
of the respiratory system. After explaining why maintaining a relatively constant proton
activity is critical to optimal cellular function we define acid-base balance and describe the
basic mechanisms responsible for acid-base homeostasis. After describing the unique role of
the HCO3-/CO2 buffer pair in acid-base regulation the four primary acid-base disturbances are defined. Finally an extensive outline is presented of the various approaches for the
evaluation of acid-base disorders followed by examples and a few clinical cases.
Keywords: Acid-Base Disorders, Acid-Base Homeostasis, Acidemia, Acidosis,
Alkalemia, Alkalosis, Anion Gap, Base Excess, Buffering Capacity, Davenport
Diagram, Henderson-Hasselbalch, Hydrogen Ions, Imidazole Group, Metabolic
Acidosis, Metabolic Alkalosis, pH, pKa, Respiratory Acidosis, Respiratory
Alkalosis, Standard Bicarbonate.
