Biochemical alterations in acute human poliomyelitis electrolyte patterns and trends.

Pronounced alterations occur in the biochemical findings in acute poliomyelitis. These are derived from three major mechanisms: (a) inefficient pulmonary gaseous exchange, resulting in respiratory acidosis; (b) profound changes in nitrogen metabolism, resulting in decreased serum albumin, tissue destruction, and increased urinary nitrogen; (c) losses of electrolytes through extrarenal channels such as lung and tracheal secretions, sweating, and gastrointestinal disturbances. The extent of these alterations may be defined by appropriate serum and urinary biochemical determinations. These determinations are valuable both from a therapeutic and a prognostic standpoint. They also contribute to further understanding of physiologic and pathologic conditions in acute poliomyelitis.