Tag: Albumin
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Ionised hypocalcaemia, pt 1: introduction
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Low ionised calcium (iCa) is a widely recognised electrolyte disturbance in critically ill human patients who have undergone surgery, are septic, have pancreatitis, or have sustained severe trauma or burns. Similar changes occur in our critical canine and feline patients, though less well documented. Calcium plays a vital role in a myriad of physiological processes…
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Hyperkalaemia, pt 2: treatment
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Treatment of hyperkalaemia is based on its severity. Mild to moderate elevations Mild to moderate elevations exist when the serum potassium concentration is between 5.5mmol/L and 6.5mmol/L. Treatment options are: IV crystalloids, which correct volume and dehydration deficits. Fluid therapy – the primary treatment, with the aim of: diluting serum potassium, by increasing the intravascular…
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Icteric serum
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The final discolouration of the serum we are going to cover is icteric serum. Icteric serum is caused by the presence of excess bilirubin in the blood stream as a result of increased production (pre-hepatic) or inappropriate excretion (hepatic and post-hepatic). The most common cause of pre-hepatic icterus is haemolytic anaemia, while hepatic disease and…
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Lipaemia – the bane of biochemistry
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Last week we covered haemolysed samples – this week we’re looking at lipaemic samples. Lipaemic samples are caused by an excess of lipoproteins in the blood, creating a milky/turbid appearance that interferes with multiple biochemical tests and can even cause haemolysis of red blood cells. Lipaemia can follow recent ingestion of a meal – especially…
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PCV/total solids interpretation: serum colour
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When interpreting the often misinterpreted and underused PCV and total solids test, it is important to take note of the serum colour as this may give clues into the diagnosis. The most common abnormalities seen in clinic are icteric, haemolysed and lipaemic serum. Clear serum can also be of importance – especially when you interpret…