Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide (pCO2)

Arterial Blood Gas

Normal Reference Ranges

Adult

35 - 45 mmHg

Pediatric

35 - 45 mmHg

Clinical Significance

Respiratory component of acid-base balance. Directly reflects alveolar ventilation.

Causes of High

  • Hypoventilation (Opioids, COPD, Neuromuscular weakness)
  • Compensation for metabolic alkalosis

Causes of Low

  • Hyperventilation (Anxiety, Sepsis, Hypoxia, Salicylates)
  • Compensation for metabolic acidosis