medium · MCAT bio-biochem
A patient with severe metabolic alkalosis (blood pH 7.6) is monitored for oxygen saturation.
What is the expected position of their oxygen-hemoglobin dissociation curve relative to the standard?
- The P_50 falls to about 35 mmHg, reflecting a marked decrease in oxygen affinity
- The curve turns hyperbolic, losing its sigmoidal shape from a scarcity of available protons
- It shifts rightward, ensuring peripheral tissues receive extra oxygen during this alkalotic state
- It is shifted to the left, which can lead to tissue hypoxia despite high arterial oxygen saturation.
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