The expert system for interpretation of acid-base disorders is in routine use in the intensive care unit and the emergency department of the university hospital since the end of 1989, producing approximately 7,500 reports per year.

Input: Blood gas data and serum electrolyts.

Output: A single, double or triple acid-base disorder. Two versions were developed: an interactive version (with explanation facilities, requested lists of causes...), and a version integrated into the laboratory information system (this version is in routine use).

The expert system is integrated in a laboratory information system (LIS).

This expert system has been developed by the Department of Medical Informatics University Hospital Gasthuisberg.