Renal Acidosis Newborns

Renal acidosis of newborns (acidosis renalis neonatorum) is a disorder of the acid-base state, characterized by a decrease in blood pH below 7.35 and an increase in the concentration of hydrogen ions in the blood.

This condition is also called neonatal metabolic acidosis or transient neonatal acidosis. It is caused by the immaturity of the renal tubules and their inability to adequately reabsorb bicarbonate.

Renal acidosis in newborns most often develops on days 2-4 of life and is manifested by respiratory depression, muscle hypotension, vomiting, and breast refusal. Diagnosis is based on determination of pH and blood gases.

Treatment consists of prescribing alkaline solutions to correct acidosis. The prognosis is generally favorable, since as the kidneys mature, the acid-base state normalizes.