Electrolyte

An electrolyte is a substance which dissociates free ions when dissolved (or molten), to produce an electrically conductive medium. Because they generally consist of ions in solution, electrolytes are also known as ionic solutes. They are sometimes referred to in abbreviated jargon as lytes.

Physiology

In physiology, the primary ions of electrolytes are sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate.

Related Topics:
Physiology - Sodium - Potassium - Calcium - Magnesium - Chloride - Phosphate - Bicarbonate

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All higher lifeforms require a subtle and complex electrolyte balance between the intracellular and extracellular milieu. In particular, the maintenance of precise osmotic gradients of electrolytes is important. Such gradients affect and regulate the hydration of the body, blood pH, and are critical for nerve and muscle function.

Related Topics:
Intracellular - Extracellular - Milieu - Osmotic - Gradient - Hydration - Blood - PH - Nerve - Muscle

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Electrolyte balance is maintained by oral intake of electrolyte-containing substances, and is regulated by hormones, generally with the kidneys flushing out excess levels. In humans, salt homeostasis is regulated by hormones such as antidiuretic hormone, aldosterone and parathyroid hormone. Serious electrolyte disturbances may lead to cardiac and neurological complications, and most are medical emergencies.

Related Topics:
Hormone - Kidney - Homeostasis - Antidiuretic hormone - Aldosterone - Parathyroid hormone - Electrolyte disturbance - Medical emergencies

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Measurement of electrolytes is a commonly performed diagnostic procedure, performed via blood testing or urinalysis. The interpretation of these values is somewhat meaningless without analysis of the clinical history, and is often impossible without parallel measurement of renal function. Electrolytes measured most often are sodium and potassium. Chloride levels are rarely measured except for arterial blood gas interpretation, as they are inherently linked to sodium levels.

Related Topics:
Blood test - Urinalysis - Clinical history - Renal function - Arterial blood gas

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