UKMLA PLAB AMC USMLE Prometric MCQ

18) The following conditions cause an increased anion gap:

TFTTT

Comments:
The anion gap is normally about 12 mmol/l. It is the difference between the cations (principally
sodium and potassium) and the anions (principally consisting of chloride and bicarbonate
ions). A rise in the gap shows the presence of an unmeasured cation or anion. In diabetic
ketoacidosis this is beta-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate and in renal failure retained
phosphate and sulphate. In proximal renal tubular acidosis the defect is one of bicarbonate
loss and the anion gap remains unchanged