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Distal renal tubular acidosis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Kidney anatomy
Kidney anatomy
Kidney - blood and urine flow
Kidney - blood and urine flow

Alternative Names    Return to top

Renal tubular acidosis - distal; Renal tubular acidosis type I; Type I RTA; RTA - distal; Classical RTA

Definition    Return to top

Distal renal tubular acidosis is a disease that occurs when the kidneys don't remove acid properly into the urine, leaving the blood too acidic (called acidosis).

Causes    Return to top

Your kidneys normally regulate your body's pH by controlling acids.

Distal renal tubular acidosis (Type I RTA) is caused by a defect in the kidney tubes that causes acid to build up in the bloodstream.

Type I RTA is caused by a variety of conditions, including:

Symptoms    Return to top

Other symptoms can include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Treatment    Return to top

The goal is to restore the normal pH (acid-base level) and electrolyte balance. This will indirectly correct bone disorders and reduce the risk of calcium build-up in the kidneys (nephrocalcinosis) and kidney stones. The underlying cause should be corrected if it can be identified.

Alkaline medications such as potassium citrate and sodium bicarbonate correct the acidic condition of the body. Sodium bicarbonate may correct the loss of potassium and calcium.

Vitamin D and calcium supplements are usually not given because there may be too much calcium in the kidneys, even after bicarbonate therapy.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The disorder must be treated to reduce its effects and complications, which can be permanent or life-threatening. Most cases get better with treatment.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of distal renal tubular acidosis.

Get help immediately if you develop emergency symptoms, such as:

Prevention    Return to top

There is no prevention for this disorder.

Update Date: 11/12/2007

Updated by: Charles Silberberg, D.O., Private Practice specializing in Nephrology, Affiliated with NY Medical College, Division of Nephrology, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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