Serum bicarbonate and dehydration severity in gastroenteritis.

Narchi, H · Arch Dis Child · 1998

cross_sectional · Level IV

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Abstract

The concentration of bicarbonate was measured in serum samples from 106 children with gastroenteritis and dehydration. A concentration less than 22 mmol/l was more common in children with severe dehydration, but the magnitude of bicarbonate reduction was not significantly different with increasing degrees of dehydration. Doctors should not rely on the serum bicarbonate concentration when assessing fluid deficit.

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