Pathogenesis and management of lactic acidosis.

This chapter reviews the current concepts concerning the pathogenesis and treatment of lactic acidosis. The biochemistry of lactic acidosis and the physiology of lactate homeostasis, particularly as it relates to interorgan lactate flux and the role of the liver, are stressed. Limitations of bicarbonate therapy and the potential benefits of a new drug, dichloroacetate, in the treatment of lactic acidosis are discussed.