What does the acronym HARDUP help to remember in relation to normal gap acidosis?

The acronym HARDUP is specifically designed to aid in recalling the causes of normal gap metabolic acidosis, which is a type of metabolic acidosis characterized by a normal anion gap. In the context of normal gap acidosis, it stands for:

• Hyperkalemia

• Acid ingestion (such as from renal failure)

• Renal tubular acidosis

• Diarrhea

• Uremia

• Parenteral nutrition (especially with excessive dextrose)

Understanding this acronym is particularly useful for medical professionals in clinical practice as it helps quickly identify potential underlying conditions that may be leading to the normal gap metabolic acidosis.

This knowledge is important for differentiating between various types of acidosis, particularly when diagnosing and treating patients effectively. The conditions encompassed by HARDUP indicate a range of physiologic derangements that can lead to a decrease in bicarbonate without a corresponding increase in the anion gap, which is crucial for appropriate management and intervention.