Hyperoxämie

Hyperoxämie refers to an abnormally high level of oxygen in the blood. Normally, the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2) is maintained within a specific range. When this value significantly exceeds the upper limit of the normal range, the condition is termed hyperoxämie. This elevation is typically a consequence of excessive oxygen administration, such as through high-flow oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation with high inspired oxygen concentrations. While oxygen is essential for life, excessively high levels can be detrimental. Potential risks associated with hyperoxämie include oxygen toxicity, which can damage lung tissue and other organs over prolonged exposure. It can also exacerbate conditions like hypercapnia in patients with certain chronic lung diseases by suppressing their hypoxic respiratory drive. Diagnosis is made through arterial blood gas analysis. Management involves reducing the inspired oxygen concentration to bring the PaO2 back into the therapeutic range, while carefully monitoring the patient's clinical status and oxygenation.