Lactic Acid Lab Values

Normal
0.3 -2.6 mmol/L

Indications

• Determine cause of acidosis
• Evaluate tissue oxygenation

Description
Lactate (Lactic Acid) is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism. Normally, the tissues use aerobic metabolism to breakdown glucose for energy and the byproduct is CO2 and H2O which we excrete through our kidneys and exhalation. However, if the tissues are starved of oxygen (hypoxic), they use anaerobic metabolism. This can be compounded if the liver is also hypoxic causing the liver to be unable to clear the lactic acid.

What would cause increased levels?

• Shock
• Sepsis
• Tissue ischemia
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Lactic acidosis
• Diabetes Mellitus (DM)
• Heart failure
• Pulmonary edema
• Strenuous exercise

What would cause decreased levels?

• N/A