Which statement is NOT a mechanism contributing to hyperkalemia?

Which statement is NOT a mechanism contributing to hyperkalemia?

• A. Hypoaldosteronism
• B. Renal failure
• C. Potassium shifts due to acidosis
• D. Hypokalemia

Answer: (D)

Hyperkalemia arises when potassium accumulates in the blood because its excretion is impaired or potassium moves out of cells into the extracellular space. Low aldosterone (hypoaldosteronism) reduces potassium excretion by the kidneys, letting potassium build up. Renal failure similarly diminishes the kidneys’ ability to excrete potassium, leading to accumulation. Acidosis causes potassium to shift from inside cells to outside, increasing the serum potassium level to maintain electroneutrality. Hypokalemia, on the other hand, means low potassium in the blood and results from factors that drive potassium into cells or increase its loss. It would not contribute to hyperkalemia; in fact, it would oppose it.

Hyperkalemia arises when potassium accumulates in the blood because its excretion is impaired or potassium moves out of cells into the extracellular space. Low aldosterone (hypoaldosteronism) reduces potassium excretion by the kidneys, letting potassium build up. Renal failure similarly diminishes the kidneys’ ability to excrete potassium, leading to accumulation. Acidosis causes potassium to shift from inside cells to outside, increasing the serum potassium level to maintain electroneutrality. Hypokalemia, on the other hand, means low potassium in the blood and results from factors that drive potassium into cells or increase its loss. It would not contribute to hyperkalemia; in fact, it would oppose it.