Acid-base disturbances in gastrointestinal disease.

Gastrointestinal disorders are associated with severe and often complex acid-base disturbances. We review the most important types of metabolic alkalosis and metabolic acidosis associated with gastrointestinal disorders, excluding liver disease. Special emphasis is placed on pathophysiologic mechanisms. This information may help the clinician understand the generation and maintenance of these disorders and to plan an effective therapeutic approach.