Mastering Acid-Base Disorders for the USMLE: A High-Yield Review

Acid-base disorders are a high-yield topic frequently tested on the USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. Understanding arterial blood gas (ABG) interpretation, anion gap analysis, and compensation mechanisms is essential for diagnosing and managing metabolic and respiratory disturbances. In this guide, we’ll simplify acid-base disorders, provide a stepwise approach to interpretation, and highlight key concepts to maximize your USMLE score.