Measures the level of bicarbonate in the blood to assess acid-base balance and electrolyte status.
The bicarbonate (HCO3) test is a diagnostic test used to determine the acidity level in the body. This test primarily measures the amount of excess bicarbonate in the blood or a significant amount. This test is typically ordered for conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, hyperparathyroidism, or various other illnesses.
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Overview
The bicarbonate test measures the amount of bicarbonate (HCO₃⁻) in your blood, which helps assess the acid-base (pH) balance and electrolyte status of the body. It is often part of a basic metabolic panel (BMP) or electrolyte panel.
Purpose
- Evaluate acid-base disorders: metabolic acidosis/alkalosis
- Monitor chronic conditions (e.g., COPD, kidney disease)
- Assess severity of electrolyte imbalance
- Guide treatment in critically ill patients
Risk Assessment / Clinical Relevance
- Critical for ICU patients: To evaluate compensation status in acid-base imbalances
- Chronic kidney disease: Bicarbonate may fall due to impaired acid excretion
- Respiratory diseases (e.g., COPD): Chronic compensation may elevate bicarbonate
- DKA: Monitoring bicarbonate is key in treatment.
22 to 28 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L)
Interpretation
| Result | Possible Indication |
| ↓ Low HCO₃⁻ (<22) | Metabolic acidosis, renal failure, lactic acidosis, DKA, diarrhea |
| ↑ High HCO₃⁻ (>28) | Metabolic alkalosis, prolonged vomiting, diuretic use, COPD (compensated) |
Interpretation should always consider:
- Arterial/venous pH
- PaCO₂ (if ABG is available)
- Clinical context (respiratory/metabolic cause)
Sample Type
- Sample: Venous blood
- Container: Usually a serum separator tube (SST) or lithium heparin tube
- Specimen requirements: No special preparation; fasting not required
Frequently Asked Question
Bicarbonate (HCO3)
Measures the level of bicarbonate in the blood to assess acid-base balance and electrolyte status.
The bicarbonate (HCO3) test is a diagnostic test used to determine the acidity level in the body. This test primarily measures the amount of excess bicarbonate in the blood or a significant amount. This test is typically ordered for conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, hyperparathyroidism, or various other illnesses.
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Assured
Free Report
Counselling