acidosis /as′idō″sis/ [L, acidus + Gk, osis, condition] , an abnormal increase in the hydrogen ion concentration in the blood, resulting from an accumulation of an acid or the loss of a base. It is indicated by a blood pH below the normal range (7.35 to 7.45). The various forms of acidosis are named for their cause; for example, renal tubular acidosis results from failure of the kidney to secrete hydrogen ions or reabsorb bicarbonate ions, respiratory acidosis results from respiratory retention of carbon dioxide, and diabetic acidosis results from an accumulation of ketones associated with a lack of insulin. Treatment depends on diagnosis of the underlying abnormality and concurrent correction of the acid-base imbalance. Compare alkalosis. −acidotic, adj.
