What classic serum electrolyte abnormality is produced by persistent severe vomiting in infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Hypochloremic, hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis
- Step 1: Loss of gastric hydrochloric acid (HCl) results in metabolic alkalosis and hypochloremia.
- Step 2: To preserve intravascular volume, renal tubules resorb sodium in exchange for potassium and hydrogen ions in urine, resulting in hypokalemia and paradoxical aciduria.
- Step 3: The hallmark metabolic disturbance is hypochloremic, hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis.
Answer
Hypochloremic, hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis.
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