Renal tubular acidosis types
Features of different types of renal tubular acidosis
| Type 1 RTA | Type 2 RTA | Type 4 RTA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Distal tubules | Proximal tubules | Adrenal |
| Acidosis degree | Yes (severe) | Yes | Mild when present |
| Potassium | Hypokalaemia | Hypokalaemia | Hyperkalaemia |
| Pathophysiology | Failure of H+ secretion by the alpha intercalated cells | Failed bicarbonate reabsorption from the urine by the proximal tubular cells | Deficiency of aldosterone, or a resistance to its effects, (hypoaldosteronism or pseudohypoaldosteronism) |
| Radiology | Nephrocalcinosis | Osteomalacia or rickets |
