[Potassium regulation--current understanding from a clinical viewpoint].

Mechanisms of renal potassium excretion and internal potassium balance as the main determinants of serum and/or total body potassium are discussed. Renal handling of potassium is reviewed, with particular attention to the effects of diuretics, acid-base disturbances and aldosterone-deficient states. Among the regulatory processes of internal potassium balance, the importance of adrenergic stimuli/drugs, of acid-base balance, and of magnesium and insulin is stressed. Physiologic and pathophysiologic evidence provides the basis for discussion of relevant clinical implications.