HCO3
Medical abbreviation · Laboratory Test
| Stands for | Bicarbonate |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
HCO3 stands for Bicarbonate, a laboratory test abbreviation.
Main buffer of the blood, keeping pH in range by absorbing excess acid; normal serum levels are about 22 to 28 mEq/L. Low bicarbonate signals metabolic acidosis (diabetic ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis, diarrhea, kidney failure), while a high level indicates metabolic alkalosis or compensation for chronic carbon dioxide retention.
Example: ABG: pH 7.21, PaCO2 24, HCO3 9; consistent with DKA with respiratory compensation.
Usage notes
Written HCO3- with a minus sign for the ion. Blood gas analyzers calculate HCO3 from pH and PaCO2, while chemistry panels measure total CO2, so the two numbers can differ slightly. Intravenous sodium bicarbonate is reserved for specific situations such as severe acidosis with kidney injury or certain poisonings.
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.