Distal renal tubular acidosis

Distal Renal Tubular Acidosis (dRTA) is a medical condition that occurs when the kidneys fail to excrete acids into the urine, which causes a person's blood to remain too acidic. This can lead to growth retardation, kidney stones, bone disease, chronic kidney disease and possibly total kidney failure. The chronic form results in short stature, metabolic acidosis, and renal calcification.

Causes

dRTA can be caused by a variety of conditions including Sjögren's syndrome, Lupus, hyperparathyroidism, and medullary sponge kidney. It can also be caused by certain medications such as amphotericin B, lithium, and analgesics.

Symptoms

The symptoms of dRTA can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience a range of symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, and frequent urination. Other symptoms can include excessive thirst, persistent vomiting, constipation, bone pain, and muscle paralysis.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of dRTA is typically made through a series of tests including blood tests, urine tests, and a renal ultrasound. In some cases, a kidney biopsy may also be required.

Treatment

The treatment for dRTA typically involves the use of medications to correct the acidosis and balance the body's electrolytes. In some cases, treatment may also involve addressing the underlying cause of the condition.

See Also

• Renal tubular acidosis
• Kidney disease
• Metabolic acidosis

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