general-critical-care

Type A vs Type B Lactic Acidosis

Lactate Interpretation

Type A vs Type B Lactic Acidosis
Feature	Type A Lactic Acidosis	Type B Lactic Acidosis
Mechanism
Definition	Tissue hypoperfusion/hypoxia → anaerobic metabolism	Adequate DO₂ but abnormal lactate production/clearance
Common Causes	Shock, severe anemia, severe hypoxemia, CO poisoning	Metformin toxicity, liver failure, thiamine deficiency, malignancy
Management Goal	Restore DO₂ (resuscitation, improve CO, Hgb)	Treat underlying cause

Comparing: Type A Lactic Acidosis

Tissue hypoperfusion/hypoxia → anaerobic metabolism

Shock, severe anemia, severe hypoxemia, CO poisoning

Restore DO₂ (resuscitation, improve CO, Hgb)

For healthcare-professional education. Clinical decisions require patient-specific assessment and local protocols.