RENAL TUBULAR-ACIDOSIS

Renal tubular acidosis encompasses a group of disorders characterized by hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis during proper renal function. Proximal and distal renal tubular acidosis are the two major types of the disorder. Distal renal tubular acidosis is associated with defective secretion of hydrogen ions by the distal tubules. Proximal renal tubular acidosis is associated with impaired ability of proximal tubules to reabsorb filtered bicarbonate and often occurs in conjunction with multiple defects in proximal tubular function; these defects are also known as Fanconi syndrome. The goal of therapy is to eliminate potential causes of the disorder, control systemic acidosis by means of alkali therapy, and correct associated electrolyte abnormalities.