The acid-base physiology of colloid solutions

Abstract

Colloids are an unusual state of matter of macromolecules with diameters between 1 and 100 nanometers. Macromolecules in clinical use include albumin, polygeline, and pentastarch. According to the approach of the late Peter Stewart, weak acids associated with these macromolecules will increase the total weak acid concentration. An increase in total weak acid concentration will increase plasma acidity. Electrolyte solutions accompanying the macromolecules in commercial preparations will further increase acidity by decreasing the strong ion difference. Controversial meta-analyses have suggested that colloid use leads to greater patient mortality. The acid-base effects of colloids are unlikely ..