Severe kidney damage, such as glomerulonephritis, is likely to lead to what metabolic condition?

Severe kidney damage, such as that seen in glomerulonephritis, is likely to lead to metabolic acidosis due to the kidneys’ crucial role in maintaining the body’s acid-base balance. In healthy kidneys, bicarbonate is reabsorbed, and hydrogen ions are excreted. When the kidneys are severely damaged, their ability to excrete acids and retain bicarbonate decreases, leading to an accumulation of hydrogen ions in the blood. Consequently, this condition results in a lower blood pH, characteristic of metabolic acidosis.

Additionally, in metabolic acidosis, bicarbonate levels drop, which further confirms that the kidneys cannot effectively manage the acid-base balance. This metabolic disturbance is a direct response to the reduced renal function, as the kidneys are essential for the excretion of metabolic acids and the regulation of bicarbonate levels in the body.

Understanding this process is critical in managing patients with kidney conditions, as their electrolyte and acid-base status must be closely monitored and corrected when necessary.