A measure of the bicarbonate level in the blood based on a venipuncture specimen. The serum carbon dioxide is one of the normally reported values in the electrolytes profile. Lower levels of carbon dioxide indicate an acidosis. The normal level is 20 to 29 mEq/L. Lower than normal levels can indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, alcoholic ketoacidosis, kidney disease, renal failure, diarrhoea, Addison's disease, ethylene glycol poisoning or methanol poisoning. Greater than normal levels can be seen with excessive vomiting, hyperaldosteronism and Cushing's syndrome.
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The normal serum bicarbonate level is typically between 22-28 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). It helps maintain the body's acid-base balance and is an important component of the body's buffering system. Deviations from this range can indicate various health conditions.
The normal level of serum urea is typically between 7 to 20 mg/dL. This can vary slightly depending on the laboratory reference range used. Elevated levels may indicate kidney dysfunction or dehydration, while low levels may be seen in liver disease or malnutrition.
The normal serum gastrin level is typically less than 100 pg/mL. Levels above this range may indicate conditions such as gastrinoma or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
The serum bicarbonate is low in ketoacidosis because it is consumed in an attempt to buffer the excess ketone acids produced during the condition. The kidneys try to excrete the ketoacids while reabsorbing bicarbonate, leading to a decrease in serum bicarbonate levels.
The normal value of bicarbonate (HCO3) in the blood is typically between 22-26 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). This value may vary slightly depending on the laboratory reference range.
Fasting is not typically required before having a serum potassium level drawn. However, it's always best to follow your healthcare provider's instructions, as they may have specific guidelines for your particular situation.