Metabolic alkalosis is seen in –
**Core Concept**
Metabolic alkalosis is a condition characterized by an increase in blood pH due to an excess of base or a deficiency of acid, often resulting from excessive vomiting, nasogastric suction, or excessive bicarbonate administration.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Metabolic alkalosis occurs when there is a net loss of hydrogen ions (H+) or an excessive gain of bicarbonate (HCO3-) ions in the body. This can be due to various causes such as prolonged vomiting, which leads to the loss of gastric acid (HCl) and results in a net gain of bicarbonate ions. The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining acid-base balance by excreting excess bicarbonate ions. However, in the setting of metabolic alkalosis, the kidneys are unable to excrete bicarbonate effectively, leading to a further increase in blood pH.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect as metabolic acidosis, not metabolic alkalosis, is characterized by a decrease in blood pH due to an excess of acid or a deficiency of base.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as respiratory alkalosis is a condition characterized by an increase in blood pH due to hyperventilation, which leads to a loss of carbon dioxide (CO2).
**Option C:** This option is incorrect as diabetic ketoacidosis is a condition characterized by an increase in blood acidity due to the production of ketone bodies.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Metabolic alkalosis is often associated with hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can occur due to the loss of potassium ions in the urine in response to the increased bicarbonate levels. This highlights the importance of monitoring potassium levels in patients with metabolic alkalosis.
**Correct Answer: C. Diabetic ketoacidosis**