| [ Summary ] |
Metabolic acidosis is a common feature in patients with chronic renal failure. Alkalizaing agents contained in dialysate, such as bicarbonate, lactate or acetate, can correct metabolic acidosis in these patients. The correction of acidosis by dialysis therapy, however, is not always fully attained, and it is reported that plasma bicarbonate concentrations in about a half of maintenance hemodialysis patients remained in subnormal range. Furthermore, metabolic acidosis is considered to be one of the most influential causes of malnutrition seen in chronic dialysis patients.
To prevent metabolic acidosis and maintain good nutritional status in dialysis patients, adequate amount of protein and phosphorus intake is essential. |