A patient with foot ulcer and severe metabolic alkalosis

Am J Emerg Med. 2012 Jan;30(1):260.e5-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2010.10.035. Epub 2010 Dec 24.

Abstract

We report a case of triple acid-base disorder with metabolic alkalosis as the primary disorder in a 65-year-old man due to ingestion and application to leg ulcers of baking soda (calcium bicarbonate). The blood pH was 7.65 with hypochloremia, hypokalemia, and prerenal azotemia. He was treated with isotonic saline with K replacement, and the patient improved without any adverse clinical consequences. We discuss the causes, mechanisms, and management of Cl-responsive (depletion) metabolic alkalosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Alkalosis / chemically induced*
  • Alkalosis / complications
  • Bicarbonates / adverse effects
  • Bicarbonates / therapeutic use
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Foot Ulcer / complications*
  • Foot Ulcer / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male

Substances

  • Bicarbonates
  • calcium bicarbonate