Recovery from pH 6.38: lactic acidosis complicated by hypothermia.
Survival after extreme arterial acidosis is uncommon. A case of metformin induced lactic acidosis is described where the presenting pH was 6.38 exacerbated by hypothermia (29 degrees C). Increased anion gap acidosis, its varied aetiology, potential reversibility, and the role of hypothermia are discussed. Early liaison with a medical toxicology unit is recommended when this rare condition is suspected.
Ahmad
S
S
Accident and Emergency Department, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK.
Beckett
M
M
D000140:Acidosis, Lactic / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000150:complications* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D007035:Hypothermia / Q000150:complications*; D008297:Male; D008687:Metformin / Q000009:adverse effects; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis
D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D008687:Metformin