Elevated Plasma Potassium and Associated Conditions

• Renal Dysfunction – Kidney failure or tubular defects can reduce potassium excretion.
• Cellular Breakdown – Tissue damage (from trauma, infarction, or severe inflammation) releases intracellular potassium.
• Endocrine Disorders – Conditions such as Addison’s disease (which can have autoimmune origins) impair aldosterone production, leading to retention of potassium.
• Medications – Certain drugs (potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors) may also elevate plasma potassium.

‍

Low Plasma Potassium and Associated Conditions

• Increased Loss or Inadequate Intake – Gastrointestinal losses (vomiting or diarrhea), excessive diuretic use, or hyperaldosteronism can lower potassium levels.
• Metabolic Shifts – During infections or stress, shifts in potassium distribution may transiently lower plasma levels.

‍

Plasma Potassium Across Life Stages

• Infants & Children – Can be particularly sensitive to potassium imbalances, requiring careful monitoring.
• Older Adults – With decreased renal reserve, they may experience hyperkalemia more readily.

‍

Electrolyte and Mineral Markers

This group of markers evaluates essential ion and mineral levels in the blood, each playing a critical role in maintaining physiological balance:

• Blood Phosphorus: Reflects circulating phosphate levels, crucial for bone health and energy metabolism, influenced by renal excretion and hormonal control.
• Plasma Potassium: Indicates the concentration of potassium, vital for proper nerve function and muscle contraction.
• Plasma Sodium: Measures the main extracellular ion responsible for osmotic balance and fluid distribution.
• Serum Calcium: Reveals calcium levels that support neuromuscular activity, cellular signaling, and bone health.
• Serum Magnesium: Assesses magnesium status, important for enzymatic reactions and muscle and nerve function.
• Lithium: Although primarily of therapeutic interest, its circulating levels interact with water and electrolyte balance, mirroring renal handling similar to other electrolytes.

Together, these markers provide a comprehensive view of the body's mineral balance and electrolyte function.

Hormonal Regulators of Electrolytes and Minerals

• Parathormone (PTH) adjusts calcium and phosphate levels via its influence on bone resorption and kidney reabsorption
• Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH) modulates water reabsorption in the kidneys to indirectly control plasma sodium levels and overall fluid balance. Together, these markers provide a

‍

‍