Based on arterial blood gas results, what condition is indicated by a pH of 7.50, PaCO2 of 42 mmHg, and HCO3- of 35 mEq/L?

In this scenario, the arterial blood gas results indicate a pH of 7.50, which is above the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45, suggesting alkalosis. The PaCO2 level is 42 mmHg, which is within the normal range of 35 to 45 mmHg, indicating that the respiratory component is not compensating in a way that would suggest a respiratory disorder. The HCO3- level is 35 mEq/L, which is elevated beyond the normal range of 22 to 26 mEq/L.

The elevated bicarbonate level points towards a metabolic cause of alkalosis, specifically metabolic alkalosis. This occurs when there is an increase in bicarbonate or a loss of acid, leading to an increase in blood pH. Given that the pH is elevated and the bicarbonate is also elevated, the diagnosis of metabolic alkalosis is supported. In metabolic alkalosis, the body's compensation typically does not involve significant respiratory changes, which is consistent with the normal range of PaCO2 in this case.

This understanding helps clarify why the results indicate metabolic alkalosis rather than any of the other potential conditions listed.