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Emerg Med J 2002;19:169-171 doi:10.1136/emj.19.2.169
  • Case report

Recovery from ph 6.38: lactic acidosis complicated by hypothermia

  1. S Ahmad1,
  2. M Beckett2
  1. 1Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
  2. 2West Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK
  1. Correspondence to:
 Mr S Ahmad, Accident and Emergency Department, Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham Palace Road, London W6 8RF, UK
  • Accepted 11 June 2001

Abstract

Survival after extreme arterial acidosis is uncommon. A case of metformin induced lactic acidosis is described where the presenting pH was 6.38 exacerbated by hypothermia (29°C). Increased anion gap acidosis, its varied aetiology, potential reversibility, and the role of hypothermia are discussed. Early liaison with a medical toxicology unit is recommended when this rare condition is suspected.

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