How to interpret lactate
Dilshad Marikar, P Raj Babu, Miriam Fine-Goulden
Abstract
The association between hyperlactataemia and poorer outcomes in acutely unwell adults and children is well recognised. Blood lactate testing has become readily available in acute settings and is considered a first-line investigation in international guidelines for the management of sepsis. However, while healthcare professionals do appreciate the value of measuring blood lactate in acute severe illness, its clinical significance and interpretation remain less well understood. In this paper, we present the evidence for the use of lactate as a diagnostic test and prognostic marker in acutely unwell children.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineBlood lactateIntensive care medicineSepsisInternal medicineHeart rateBlood pressureSepsis Diagnosis and TreatmentAdrenal Hormones and DisordersMetabolism and Genetic Disorders