Distal renal tubular acidosis

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Kidney anatomy

Kidney - blood and urine flow

Renal tubular acidosis - distal; Renal tubular acidosis type I; Type I RTA; RTA - distal; Classical RTA

The goal is to restore the normal pH (acid-base level) and normal electrolyte balance. This will indirectly correct bone disorders and reduce the risk of nephrocalcinosis and kidney stones. The underlying cause should be corrected if it can be identified.

Alkaline medications such as potassium citrate and sodium bicarbonate are administered to correct the acidic condition of the body. Sodium bicarbonate administration may correct the loss of potassium and calcium.

Vitamin D and calcium supplements are usually not given because the tendency toward nephrocalcinosis persists even after bicarbonate therapy.

The disorder must be treated to reduce its effects and complications, which can be permanent and/or life-threatening. Most cases resolve successfully with treatment.

• Osteomalacia
• Rickets
• Nephrocalcinosis
• Kidney stones
• Electrolyte disturbances, such as low blood potassium level

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate distal renal tubular acidosis may be present.

Call your health care provider if new symptoms develop, including bone pain, pain in the back or flank or abdomen, skeletal deformities, increased heart rate or irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, decreased urine output, bloody urine, or other symptoms.

Severe decrease in alertness or orientation, decreased consciousness, and seizures, are emergency symptoms that can develop.

Review Date: 12/19/2005
Reviewed By: Colm C. Magee, MD, MPH, Medical Director, Renal Transplant, Brigham & Women's Hospital, and Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.