Renal tubular acidosis; distal

Alternative names:

classical RTA; distal renal tubular acidosis; renal tubular acidosis type I; RTA - distal; type I RTA

Symptoms:

• fatigue
• weakness
• confusion or decreased alertness
• increased rate of breathing

Signs and tests:

The most common presentation is with kidney stones (renal calculi). The respiratory rate may be rapid as the body attempts to decrease carbon dioxide in response to decreased bicarbonate levels. Signs and symptoms of osteomalacia or rickets, nephrocalcinosis, or electrolyte disturbances may appear.

• The simultaneous measurements of the blood pH and the urine pH may show inadequate hydrogen ion excretion.
• A urinalysis shows abnormalities including increased levels of calcium and potassium in the urine. The urine may be alkaline.
• An ABG (arterial blood gas) and blood chemistries indicate metabolic acidosis and hypokalemia (a low blood-potassium level).