What condition can cause increased acid excretion in metabolic acidosis?

Study for the Harr Clinical Chemistry Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions for each topic covered. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you understand. Prepare effectively for success!

In metabolic acidosis, the body attempts to correct the pH imbalance by enhancing the excretion of acids. Renal failure often leads to an accumulation of acids in the body because the kidneys are unable to adequately filter and excrete substances. In a healthy physiological state, the kidneys help regulate acid-base balance by excreting hydrogen ions and reabsorbing bicarbonate. When renal function is compromised, this ability diminishes, leading to reduced acid excretion and a worsening of acidosis.

In contrast, options such as diabetes mellitus can lead to increased acid production due to conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis, but they do not straightforwardly enhance acid excretion as renal failure does. Hypersensitivity reactions and hypertension likewise do not have a direct relationship with acid excretion in the context of metabolic acidosis. Thus, renal failure stands out as the condition that would directly impact acid excretion in a way that exacerbates metabolic acidosis.

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