Examinations
Examinations
Chloride is the primary anion in extracellular fluid and gastric juice. As a negatively charged electrolyte, it works alongside sodium, potassium, and bicarbonate to regulate body fluid levels and maintain pH balance. Chloride ions also play a key role in sustaining acid-base balance, osmotic pressure, and water balance. Chloride is found in plasma, lymph, and cerebrospinal fluid. Its levels in plasma depend on intake, distribution in the body, and excretion through urine, sweat, and feces. Chloride depletion leads to alkalosis, while excess intake results in acidosis.
- Blood sample collected from a vein.
- Fasting for 8-14 hours is required.
- The test should be conducted between 8 and 11 a.m.
- Avoid consuming excessive food prior to the test.
- Kidney diseases.
- Diabetes insipidus.
- Adrenal gland disorders.
- Monitoring and tracking acid-base imbalances in various conditions.
Elevated Chloride Levels (Hyperchloremia):
- Acute kidney failure.
- Diabetes insipidus.
- Treatment with corticosteroids.
- Respiratory alkalosis.
- Adrenal cortex hyperfunction.
- Dehydration.
Reduced Chloride Levels (Hypochloremia):
- Frequent sweating (due to secretory dysfunction or hormonal imbalance).
- Excessive use of diuretics.
- Respiratory and metabolic acidosis.
- Aldosteronism.
- Head injuries.
- Use of antidiarrheal medications.
- Water intoxication with increased extracellular fluid volume.
- Dehydration due to fluid loss during vomiting or diarrhea.