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Dancing with death at pH 6.8 and lactate of 29 mmol/L: extreme survival in severe metformin-associated lactic acidosis - a case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Lactic acidosis is a serious metabolic disorder characterized by an accumulation of lactate in the body, which can lead to a severe acid-base imbalance. Metformin-associated lactic acidosis is a rare but life-threatening complication of metformin therapy, particularly in the setting of acute kidney injury or other conditions that impair lactate clearance. In this case report, we present the remarkable survival of a patient who experienced severe metformin-associated lactic acidosis with a blood pH of 6.8 and a lactate level of 29 mmol/L, which are typically considered incompatible with life.

Source: Frontiers in Medicine

DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2025.1604360

Authors: Said Kortli, Roland Amathieu, Mohamed Ghalayini

Institutions: Centre Hospitalier de Gonesse, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord

Language: English

Topic: Renal function and acid-base balance

Subfield: Nephrology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801