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Multiple Choice

In congestive heart failure, which analyte decreases?

In congestive heart failure, fluid overload is treated with diuretics, and these drugs cause losses of electrolytes in the urine. Loop and thiazide diuretics especially promote the excretion of chloride alongside sodium, and the accompanying changes in acid–base balance (often metabolic alkalosis) can further lower serum chloride. BNP tends to rise because the ventricles are stretched and release this peptide to promote natriuresis and diuresis. Uric acid often increases due to reduced kidney perfusion and increased production. ALT may rise with hepatic congestion, but the specific change most characteristic of treatment-related electrolyte shifts in CHF is a decrease in chloride.

In congestive heart failure, fluid overload is treated with diuretics, and these drugs cause losses of electrolytes in the urine. Loop and thiazide diuretics especially promote the excretion of chloride alongside sodium, and the accompanying changes in acid–base balance (often metabolic alkalosis) can further lower serum chloride. BNP tends to rise because the ventricles are stretched and release this peptide to promote natriuresis and diuresis. Uric acid often increases due to reduced kidney perfusion and increased production. ALT may rise with hepatic congestion, but the specific change most characteristic of treatment-related electrolyte shifts in CHF is a decrease in chloride.