What is the medical term for excessive potassium in the blood?

Study for the AAPC Anatomy Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

The term for excessive potassium in the blood is hyperkalemia. This condition occurs when the potassium levels in the bloodstream rise above the normal range, which can be critical as potassium plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and heart rhythm regulation. Elevated potassium levels can lead to serious health complications, such as cardiac arrhythmias, due to the disruption of electrical signals necessary for the heart's function.

In contrast, hypokalemia refers to low potassium levels, normokalemia indicates normal potassium levels, and akaliema is not a recognized medical term related to potassium levels in the blood. Recognizing hyperkalemia is essential for timely diagnosis and management to prevent potential life-threatening effects associated with high potassium levels.

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