ACID-BASE DISORDERS. THE CLINICAL USE OF THE ASTRUP METHOD OF DETERMINING PH, PCO2 AND BASE EXCESS.

The Astrup method for determination of arterial pH, pCO(2), and "base excess" provides a simple and accurate means for quantitation of acid-base disorders. The "base excess" value, a measure of metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, gives the clinician a valuable tool with which to estimate electrolyte replacement. The pCO(2) is a measure of respiratory acidosis or alkalosis. The pH is used as a measure of the adequacy of compensation. Several representative cases illustrate the use and interpretation of the test.