Which statement describes the base excess/deficit in respiratory acidosis?

In the context of respiratory acidosis, it is important to understand how base excess or deficit is affected by the respiratory system's capability to eliminate carbon dioxide (CO2). Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is an accumulation of CO2 in the blood, often due to conditions that impair ventilation.

During this process, the body may engage compensatory mechanisms, primarily through metabolic alterations. The kidneys may retain bicarbonate (HCO3-) in response to the increased CO2 levels, thereby improving the buffering capacity of the blood. However, this does not always result in a significant change in base excess or deficit.

Base excess or deficit represents the metabolic component of acid-base balance and can indeed remain normal in respiratory acidosis if effective compensation is at play. Therefore, saying that it is "normal" reflects that while the primary issue is respiratory and leads to increased acidity due to CO2 retention, the metabolic response of the kidneys can maintain a stable base status, thus resulting in no significant elevation or decrease in the base excess or deficit during acute states of respiratory acidosis.