Renal compensation
Renal Compensation
Renal compensation (/rɪˈnæl kɒmpɛnˈseɪʃən/) is a physiological process that the kidneys undertake to regulate the pH levels in the body. This process is crucial in maintaining homeostasis and is often a response to respiratory acidosis or respiratory alkalosis.
Etymology
The term "renal" is derived from the Latin word renes, meaning kidneys. "Compensation" comes from the Latin compensatio, meaning "a weighing one thing against another". Therefore, renal compensation refers to the kidneys' role in balancing the body's pH levels.
Process
Renal compensation involves the kidneys adjusting the amount of bicarbonate (HCO3-) reabsorbed or excreted. This process is slower than respiratory compensation, but it has a more significant effect on the body's pH balance.
In the case of respiratory acidosis, the kidneys will increase the reabsorption of bicarbonate to neutralize the excess hydrogen ions in the body. Conversely, in respiratory alkalosis, the kidneys will excrete more bicarbonate to increase the acidity of the body fluids.
Related Terms
- Acidosis: A condition characterized by an excessive acid in the body fluids.
- Alkalosis: A condition where the body fluids have excess base (alkali).
- Metabolic acidosis: A condition that occurs when the body produces too much acid or when the kidneys are not removing enough acid from the body.
- Metabolic alkalosis: A condition that occurs when your body produces too much bicarbonate or when your kidneys are not removing enough acid from the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Renal compensation
- Wikipedia's article - Renal compensation
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