LECTURE 11

Acid-Base Balance

The equilibrium between acidity and alkalinity in the body, regulated by the concentration of protons and bicarbonate ions.

Metabolic Acidosis

A condition where the body has an excess of protons or a decrease in bicarbonate ions, often seen in conditions like renal failure or diabetes mellitus.

Carbonic Anhydrase

An enzyme crucial for maintaining acid-base balance by catalyzing the conversion of carbon dioxide and water to carbonic acid.

Respiratory Acidosis

Occurs when the body can't eliminate carbon dioxide efficiently, leading to an increase in acidity in the blood.

Proximal Convoluted Tubule

Part of the nephron where processes like bicarbonate reabsorption and proton secretion occur to regulate acid-base balance.

Phosphate Buffering System

Involves dihydrogen phosphate to help regulate acid-base balance by binding with protons.

Ammonia Buffering

Utilizes ammonium ions derived from protein metabolism to aid in excreting excess protons and maintaining acid-base balance.

Acid-Base Balance

The process by which the kidneys regulate the pH of the blood by excreting protons in the urine and absorbing bicarbonate.

Phosphate Buffering System

A mechanism in the kidneys where disodium hydrogen phosphate can dissociate to release protons, aiding in the excretion of hydrogen ions.

Ammonium Ion

A compound formed in the kidneys from ammonia and protons, impermeable to the apical membrane, facilitating the excretion of protons in the urine.

Chronic Renal Failure

A condition where the kidneys gradually lose function over time, leading to an inability to regulate fluid levels, electrolyte balance, and other bodily functions.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

A measure of kidney function, with a normal range between 90-100 ml/min, used to stage renal failure from Stage 1 to Stage 5 based on decreasing GFR levels.

Urinalysis

A non-invasive method to assess kidney function by detecting blood and protein in the urine, indicating potential renal damage or failure.

End-Stage Renal Disease

Previously known as Stage 5 renal failure, where kidney function is severely impaired, requiring intervention such as dialysis or transplantation.

Electrolyte Balance

The maintenance of proper levels of ions like sodium, potassium, and calcium in the body, regulated by the kidneys among other organs.

Glomeruli Damage

Kidney disease can lead to bursts or damage to the glomeruli, resulting in blood in urine.

Impaired Platelet Function

Kidney issues can cause impaired platelet function, leading to bruising and frequent nosebleeds.

Metabolic Acidosis

Inability to excrete protons can increase pressure on the respiratory system, causing labored breathing.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Changes in potassium levels in kidney disease can result in peripheral neuropathy, causing tingling in fingers and toes.

Hemodialysis

Artificial blood filtering method used in renal failure, requiring a fistula to be created for blood access.

Peritoneal Dialysis

Dialysis method utilizing the peritoneal cavity for fluid exchange, allowing for a slower process and daily life continuation.

Kidney Transplantation

Optimal treatment for chronic renal failure, involving placing a new kidney lower in the abdomen and connecting it to the iliac vein and artery.

Organ Donation Law

Max and Cara's law in the UK changed in 2024 to an opt-out system for organ donation, aiming to increase organ availability.