Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide (pCO2)
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- mmHg
pCO2 is a measurement of the pressure of carbon dioxide dissolved in arterial blood. It serves as the primary marker for the respiratory component of acid-base balance. It indicates how effectively the lungs are removing CO2, which is a byproduct of cellular metabolism. It is essential for managing patients with respiratory failure, COPD, or metabolic disturbances.
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Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
The measurement is extremely sensitive to the patient's breathing pattern at the moment of the draw. Acute anxiety or pain from the arterial puncture can cause hyperventilation, resulting in a false low pCO2 that does not reflect the patient's baseline physiological state.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Partial Pressure of Carbon Dioxide (pCO2):
Official Sources
Research & Guidelines
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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