Congestive Heart Failure

Abstract

Metabolic studies were made on the effects of salt restriction and the administration of mercurials on the electrolyte metabolism of patients in congestive failure. Varying degrees of hyponatremia and hypochloremic alkalosis were noted. Significant disturbances in potassium balance were not observed and normal potassium values were found in biopsy specimens of skeletal muscle. The alkalosis can be attributed to the effect of mercurials on chloride excretion which is relatively greater than their effect on sodium. The continued administration of mercurials resulted in electrolyte disturbances which prevented diuresis. When these abnormalities were corrected the mercurials again became effective.