The bicarbonate content of serum or plasma may be a significant indicator of electrolyte dispersion and anion deficit. The determination of bicarbonate with pH measurements helps to utilized in treatment and diagnosis of various potentially serious disorders related to an acid-base imbalance within the respiratory and metabolic systems. Some of these conditions are diarrhea, renal tubular acidosis, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, hyperkalemic acidosis, kidney failure, and ketoacidosis.