SEVERE METABOLIC ALKALOSIS

Our patient's acid-base disturbance may be among the highest recorded in nonfatal cases of metabolic alkalosis. This case also shows that life-threatening alkalemia can be safely and effectively treated by defining and removing the causes of alkalosis and applying aggressive supportive therapy with fluid repletion and potassium and electrolyte replacement. The need for potentially dangerous therapy such as exogenous acid administration, dialysis, or forced mechanical depression of respiration should not routinely be used on the basis of blood pH alone, and it should never replace thoughtful, organized supportive care.