• The major causes:
• Retention of K as a result of decreased or inadequate urine output
Excessive release of K from the cells due to traumatic injury, burns, cell lysis, acidosis
• Excessive infusion of IV solutions containing K
• Various drugs

• Acidosis moves K outside the cell as H ions shift into the cell
• Cell injury results in the release or spilling of K into the plasma
• Increased dietary intake with decreased urine output
• Excessive salt substitute use
• Excessive K supplements
• Blood transfusions
• Drugs
• Beta-blockers
• K sparing diuretics
• Chemotherapy
• Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors
• NSAID’s
• Aminoglycosides
• Acute or chronic renal failure
• Diabetes
• Sickle cell disease
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Addison’s disease
• Hypoaldosteronism
• Burns
• Severe infection
• Trauma
• Crush injuries
• Metabolic acidosis
• Insulin deficiency

Category: Karnataka PGET 2007 MCQs