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Lactic Acidosis

Meaning

Lactic Acidosis is a serious metabolic condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of lactic acid, or lactate, in the bloodstream, resulting in a clinically significant decrease in the body’s pH level. This state occurs when the rate of lactate production exceeds the rate of its clearance, often due to tissue hypoxia or a systemic failure in oxidative metabolism. Clinically, it is a critical finding in conditions such as severe sepsis, circulatory shock, or as a rare but serious side effect of certain medications like metformin in patients with renal impairment. Prompt identification and correction of the underlying cause are essential to prevent organ dysfunction.