Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift
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Dtsch. Med. Wochenschr. · Aug 1996
Review Case Reports[Severe metabolic alkalosis with a consciousness disorder].
A 47-year-old man in a reduced general condition, presumed to be a chronic alcoholic, was hospitalised in a sleepy state and impaired level of consciousness (Glasgow Coma Scale 8). There were no focal neurological deficits, but all proprioceptor reflexes were weak. Body temperature was 36.8 degrees C, blood pressure 90/60 mm Hg, and heart rate 80/min. ⋯ Even severe hypochloraemic alkalosis can be quickly reversed with infusion of chloride without sodium Successful treatment with chloride alone excludes alkalosis induced by mineralocorticoids.