How to interpret lactate.

Dilshad MarikarPratusha BabuMiriam R Fine-Goulden

Published in: Archives of disease in childhood. Education and practice edition (2020)

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.

Keyphrases

liver failure
young adults
drug induced
respiratory failure
aortic dissection
intensive care unit
acute kidney injury
early onset
hepatitis b virus
metabolic syndrome
septic shock
mechanical ventilation