THE EFFECT OF ANOXIC ANOXIA ON THE HUMAN KIDNEY 1

Abstract

In 7 subjects with normal cardiovascular and respiratory systems, renal function during inhalation of 14% O was compared with renal function during the preceding and subsequent periods breathing room air. Similar studies were conducted in 2 emphysematous subjects with arterial blood oxygen tensions of approx. 50 mm. Hg while breathing room air and again, while breathing 100% O. Periods breathing room air were considered as the anoxic periods. Renal plasma flow in man did not decrease under situations of anoxia where arterial oxygen tension was lowered to about 50 mm. Hg. The most pronounced effect of lowered oxygen tension on renal tissue was the increased excretion of Na and chloride. Anoxic anoxia alone, therefore, does not appear to be the cause of the reduction of renal plasma flow nor the retention of salt and water observed in congestive heart failure.