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In sweat glands potassium elimination is quite similar to the kidney; its excretion is also controlled by aldosterone. [medical citation needed] Regulation of serum potassium is a function of intake, appropriate distribution between intracellular and extracellular compartments, and effective bodily excretion.
Potassium is a chemical element; it has symbol K (from Neo-Latin kalium) and atomic number 19. It is a silvery white metal that is soft enough to easily cut with a knife. [9] Potassium metal reacts rapidly with atmospheric oxygen to form flaky white potassium peroxide in only seconds of exposure.
potassium (from Latin kalium) KA: ketoacidosis: Kcal: kilocalorie; calorie: KCCT: kaolin cephalin clotting time (see Partial thromboplastin time) KELS: Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills kg: kilogram: KIV: keep in view KLS: kidney, liver, spleen K m: Michaelis constant: KOH: potassium hydroxide KS: Kaposi's sarcoma; Kartagener syndrome: KSHV
Normal potassium levels in humans are between 3.5 and 5.0 mmol/L (3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L) with levels below 3.5 mmol/L defined as hypokalemia. [1] [2] It is classified as severe when levels are less than 2.5 mmol/L. [1] Low levels may also be suspected based on an electrocardiogram (ECG). [1]
The trans-tubular potassium gradient (TTKG) is an index reflecting the conservation of potassium in the cortical collecting ducts (CCD) of the kidneys. It is useful in diagnosing the causes of hyperkalemia or hypokalemia. [1] [2] The TTKG estimates the ratio of potassium in the lumen of the CCD to that in the peritubular capillaries.
"Potassium is a mineral and an electrolyte that aids in muscle contraction and blood pressure regulation by counteracting the effects of sodium and fluid balance," Whitaker says. "It may prevent ...
Potassium resides mainly inside the cells of the body, so its concentration in the blood can range anywhere from 3.5 mEq/L to 5 mEq/L. [14] The kidneys are responsible for excreting the majority of potassium from the body. [14] This means their function is crucial for maintaining a proper balance of potassium in the blood stream.
A medical test is a medical procedure performed to detect, diagnose, or monitor diseases, disease processes, susceptibility, or to determine a course of treatment. Medical tests such as, physical and visual exams, diagnostic imaging, genetic testing, chemical and cellular analysis, relating to clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics, are typically performed in a medical setting.