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Renal Tubular Acidosis

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Abstract

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) comprises a group of disorders characterized by low capacity for net acid excretion and persistent hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis, despite preserved glomerular filtration rate. RTA are classified into chiefly three types (1, 2 and 4) based on pathophysiology and clinical and laboratory characteristics. Most patients have primary RTA that presents in infancy with polyuria, growth retardation, rickets and/or hypotonia. Diagnosis requires careful evaluation, including exclusion of other entities that can cause acidosis. A variety of tests, administered stepwise, are useful for the diagnosis and characterization of RTA. A genetic or acquired basis can be determined in majority of patients through focused evaluation. Management involves correction of acidosis and dyselectrolytemia; patients with proximal RTA with Fanconi syndrome and rickets require additional supplements of phosphate and vitamin D.

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  1. Division of Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 110029, India

    Arvind Bagga & Aditi Sinha

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  1. Arvind Bagga
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  2. Aditi Sinha
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Correspondence to Arvind Bagga.

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Bagga, A., Sinha, A. Renal Tubular Acidosis. Indian J Pediatr 87, 733–744 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12098-020-03318-8

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