BlutpH

BlutpH is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration in blood, reflecting the blood's acidity or basicity and its overall acid–base status. It is usually reported as a pH value on a scale from around 0 to 14, with a normal arterial blood pH close to neutral but slightly alkaline.

Normal range: Arterial blood pH is normally 7.35–7.45. Values below this range indicate acidemia, values above indicate alkalemia. Even small deviations can affect enzyme activity, oxygen delivery, and cellular function.

Regulation: The body keeps BlutpH within narrow limits using buffer systems (bicarbonate, phosphate, and proteins), respiratory control of CO2, and renal handling of bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. The bicarbonate buffer pair H2CO3 / HCO3- buffers changes in pH; CO2 levels influence pH through the carbonic acid equilibrium. If pH falls, respiratory rate may change to increase CO2 removal; kidneys reabsorb bicarbonate and excrete hydrogen ions, generating new bicarbonate as needed over hours to days.

Measurement: BlutpH is assessed directly in arterial or venous blood. Most clinical assessments rely on arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis, which reports pH, partial pressures of CO2 and O2, and bicarbonate. Interpretation distinguishes respiratory disorders (abnormal pCO2) from metabolic disorders (abnormal HCO3-).

Clinical relevance: Disturbances include metabolic acidosis, metabolic alkalosis, respiratory acidosis, and respiratory alkalosis. Common causes include diabetic ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, kidney failure, vomiting, diarrhea, pulmonary disease, or severe infections. Management targets the underlying cause and may include fluid and electrolyte therapy, ventilation adjustments, or, in some cases, administration of bicarbonate.