Abstract

The Astrup pH meter was used to determine capillary blood pH and pCO 2 during 53 episodes of status asthmaticus (Adrenalin-resistant asthma) in 40 children. Although all attacks were severe, in 24 episodes pCO 2 was normal, and in 4 it was below normal. The pCO 2 was elevated in 25 (or 47 per cent) of the 53 episodes. In 7 of these patients, all of whom were extremely ill with varying degrees of CO 2 intoxication, the pCO 2 exceeded 60 mm. Hg, and pH was below 7.3. During 10 episodes metabolic acidosis was noticed with or without hypercapnia. One patient had 4 episodes of what appcared to be status asthmaticus with a picture of respiratory alkalosis resulting from associated hyperventilation. Serum electrolytes were not significantly altered. The measurements of pH, pCO 2, and standard bicarbonate provided information useful in the evaluation and management of patients in status asthmaticus.

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