THE SIGNIFICANCE OF URINARY pH: CRITICAL OBSERVATIONS

Abstract

The frequency distr. curve of 417 consecutive urine specimens on a normal subject under nutritionally satisfactory conditions shows pH values from 4.6 to 8 (25[degree]C), 60% being below pH 6, only 11.7% reaching pH 7. Normality is characterized by variability, abnormality by fixation of pH. Numerical designation of this variation is given in acid activity points (multiplicaton by 10-7 gives cH). Normally the difference between the highest and lowest readings on 8-10 consecutive urines in 24 hrs. amts. to 50 points. In mild nephritis 20-30 points were noted, less than 1 in terminal nephritis. The acid urine in alkalosis with dehydration shifts to alkaline on relief of dehydration. Ketones may occur in urine of any reaction. Response to acidification or alkalinization is highly variable and particularly conditioned by psychologic factors. The reasons for and means of altering urinary reaction are discussed.