acidosis (asid-oh-sis) n. a condition in which the acidity of body fluids and tissues is abnormally high. This arises because of a failure of the mechanisms responsible for maintaining a balance between acids and alkalis in the blood (see acid-base balance). See also ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis.
—acidotic (asid-ot-ik) adj.

acidosis An increase in the acidity of blood plasma to below the normal range of pH 7.3–7.45, resulting from a loss of the buffering capacity of the plasma, alteration in the excretion of carbon dioxide, excessive loss of base from the body, or metabolic overproduction of acids.

acidosis A condition in which the body fluids become more acidic, i.e. the pH is less than 7.4, and the capacity of the body to buffer hydrogen ions is diminished. A decrease in the elimination of carbon dioxide from the body gives rise to respiratory acidosis, while a deficiency of hydrogencarbonate results in metabolic acidosis.

acidosis Abnormal condition in which the acidity of the body tissues and fluids is unduly high. It may arise in a number of conditions, including kidney failure, severe diabetes, shock and some forms of poisoning. Symptoms include breathlessness, weakness and general malaise.