Bicarbonate

Also known as: Total CO2; TCO2; Bicarb

Formal name: Bicarbonate

Related tests: Electrolyte panel; Sodium; Potassium; Chloride; CMP; BMP; Blood gases

Common Questions

If my doctor has done a total CO2 or bicarbonate test, why does he want to test my blood gases?

1. If my doctor has done a total CO2 or bicarbonate test, why does he want to test my blood gases?

Blood gas tests, in which blood is drawn from an artery instead of a vein, can give your doctor a better look at your pH (acid/base level). They can tell your doctor whether your lungs are working properly to keep PO2 and PCO2 at healthy levels.

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This article was last reviewed on October 27, 2008. | This page was last modified on November 14, 2009.

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