Practice Questions for Respiratory System Related

Review Practice Questions for Respiratory System related questions and content

Which type of acid-base imbalance can result from the inhibition of carbonic anhydrase?

  • A. Metabolic acidosis
  • B. Respiratory acidosis
  • C. Metabolic alkalosis
  • D. Respiratory alkalosis
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into carbonic acid, which then dissociates into bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase leads to decreased bicarbonate levels, causing metabolic alkalosis. Without adequate bicarbonate, the body accumulates excess base, resulting in alkalosis. Metabolic acidosis (A) is incorrect because inhibition of carbonic anhydrase would lead to excess base, not acid. Respiratory acidosis (B) and respiratory alkalosis (D) are incorrect as they are caused by respiratory, not metabolic, disturbances.