Hypokalaemia in alcoholic patients

摘要: Hypokalaemia is commonly found among the electrolyte abnormalities observed in chronic alcoholics. However, underlying mechanisms of decreased potassium levels are not well known. We undertook present study to analyse possible pathogenetic hypokalaemia a large group alcoholic patients (n = 127) admitted our hospital for causes related alcohol abuse. Serum were significantly lower compared control population (3.8 + 1.1 mmol/l vs. 4.6 0.9 mmol/l). In 12 these inappropriate kaliuresis was due mainly coexistent hypomagnesaemia. Two remaining four had history diarrhoea, while other two withdrawal syndrome with considerable respiratory alkalosis. Patients hypomagnesaemia and alkalosis more normokalaemic ones. conclude that relatively common abnormality owing various pathophysiological mechanisms. Among them, co-existent predominates.