Chloride

Chloride, a major anion, is important in the maintenance of the cation/anion balance between intra- and extra-cellular fluids. This electrolyte is therefore essential to the control of proper hydration, osmotic pressure and acid/base equilibrium. Low serum chloride values are found with extensive burns, excessive vomiting, intestinal obstruction, nephritis, metabolic acidosis, and in Addisonian crisis. Elevated serum chloride values may be seen in dehydration, hyperventilation, congestive heart valve failure, and prostatic or other types of urinary obstruction.