PCO2

Carbon dioxide molecule.

The PCO₂ is the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the blood. Usually the arterial blood is the relevant context; the symbol for PCO₂ in arterial blood is PaCO₂. Measurement of PaCO₂ in the systemic circulation indicates the effectiveness of ventilation at the lungs' alveoli, given the diffusing capacity of the gas. It is a good indicator of respiratory function and the closely related factor of acid–base homeostasis, reflecting the amount of acid in the blood (without lactic acid).

Values

Its normal values are in the range 35-45 mmHg.
If the PCO₂ is less than 35 mmHg, the patient is hyperventilating, and if the pH (potential hydrogen) is greater than 7.45, corresponding to a respiratory alkalosis.
If the PCO₂ is higher than 45 mmHg, the patient is hypoventilating, and if the pH is less than 7.35, is in respiratory acidosis.^[1]^[2]

See also

References

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