Metabolic acidosis in dextran-induced anaphylactic reactions.

Results of arterial blood gas and acid-base balance analyses were analyzed in 50 patients suffering from dextran-induced anaphylactic reactions. Metabolic acidosis was always present in severe cases, leading to cardiac arrest, and also frequently found in those with less severe reactions with only slightly impaired circulation. Bronchospastic respiratory signs were frequently encountered but acidosis was noted to develop even without these symptoms. The severity of the acidosis was generally underestimated during treatment. Arterial PO2 and PCO2 were not significantly affected during these reactions.