medium · MCAT bio-biochem
A patient presents with 'fruity-smelling' breath, rapid deep breathing (Kussmaul respirations), and high blood glucose. This condition results in a metabolic acidosis.
Which of the following best explains the respiratory response?
- Hypoventilation increases PCO₂ to provide more substrate for bicarbonate synthesis.
- Hyperventilation decreases PCO₂, which shifts the bicarbonate buffer system to consume H⁺ ions.
- The deep breathing is a direct reflex to the low partial pressure of oxygen in the blood.
- Increased blood glucose directly stimulates the peripheral chemoreceptors in the carotid bodies.
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