Correction for loss of CO2 from blood during measurement of osmotic pressure

J Appl Physiol Respir Environ Exerc Physiol. 1978 Mar;44(3):474-8. doi: 10.1152/jappl.1978.44.3.474.

Abstract

During osmolality measurement by the vapor pressure method, exposure of the blood sample to air lowers the blood CO2 content and hence osmolality. A modification of the sample holder of a vapor pressure osmometer is described allowing exposure of the blood sample to a gas mixture with known concentration of CO2 and O2 while inside the closed sample chamber. This restores its CO2 content and hence osmolality. Data are presented comparing the unmodified and modified vapor pressure method with the freezing point depression method. A table was prepared for further correction of osmolality in case the blood's PCO2 differs from that of the gas mixture.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood Gas Analysis / methods
  • Carbon Dioxide / blood*
  • Osmolar Concentration

Substances

  • Carbon Dioxide