Fluid and Electrolyte Balance Lecture

Flashcards covering key concepts from the Fluid and Electrolyte Balance lecture.

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

The regulation of body fluids and electrolytes to maintain homeostasis.

Intracellular Fluid (ICF)

Fluid within cells, approximately 28L in a 70kg person.

Extracellular Fluid (ECF)

Fluid outside cells, consisting of plasma (3.5L) and interstitial fluid (10.5L), totaling approximately 14L.

Sodium (Na+)

The principal cation in extracellular fluid, essential for maintaining serum osmolality (normal range: 135-145 mmol/L).

Potassium (K+)

The principal cation within cells, necessary for neuromuscular function (serum level: 3.5-5 mmol/L).

Hyponatraemia

A condition characterized by low sodium concentration in the blood, which can result from sodium loss or water retention.

Hypernatraemia

A condition resulting from high sodium levels, often due to water depletion or sodium retention.

Arginine Vasopressin (AVP)

Also known as Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH), it regulates water retention in the kidneys based on blood osmolality.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS)

A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.

Calcium Regulation

The mechanisms controlling calcium levels in the body, primarily involving Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) and Vitamin D.

Hypocalcaemia

A condition of low calcium levels in the blood, which can lead to neuromuscular symptoms and other health issues.

Hyperkalaemia

A condition characterized by high potassium levels in the blood, which can cause severe cardiac effects.

Hypokalaemia

A condition of low potassium levels in the blood, often resulting from gastrointestinal or renal losses.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

A measure of kidney function, indicating the rate at which blood is filtered through the kidneys.

Creatinine Clearance

The rate at which creatinine is removed from the blood by the kidneys, used to estimate GFR.

Albumin Correction for Calcium Levels

A calculation to adjust calcium levels in the blood based on albumin concentration.