A patient with severe vomiting has a blood pH of 7.5, a bicarbonate level of 32 mmol/L, and a PCO2 level of 40 mmHg. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A Respiratory acidosis
B Metabolic alkalosis ✓
C Respiratory alkalosis
D Metabolic acidosis

Explanation

The patient's high blood pH, elevated bicarbonate level, and normal PCO2 level are indicative of metabolic alkalosis, which can occur due to severe vomiting.

Mnemonic

_VOMIT = Vomiting Often Makes Ion Transport

Source

Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
Electrolytes and Acid-Base Balance Pathophysiology Acid-Base Disorders Hard MEDICAL Confidence: high