Final answer:
The primary treatment for elevated ammonia levels involves addressing underlying hepatic dysfunction or systemic abnormalities, potentially with surgical intervention. Conversion of ammonia to urea in the liver is crucial for detoxification, with urea aiding renal recovery of water and maintenance of electrolyte balance. Blood urea levels are an important diagnostic measure, and treatment may include dietary management and medications or dialysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Primary Treatment for Elevated Ammonia Levels
The primary treatment for elevated ammonia levels, indicating a case of ammonia intoxication, involves addressing the underlying hepatic dysfunction or abnormalities in the portal and systemic veins. In severe cases, this could be treated with a surgical shunting method to correct the impaired hepatic function. Ammonia is a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism that is typically converted into urea by liver hepatocytes because urea is less toxic and aids in the recovery of water in the kidneys. Disorders in the urea cycle can lead to ammonia intoxication, necessitating prompt treatment to avoid central nervous system toxicity. Estimation of blood urea is key diagnosing tool, with methods such as the Diacetyl Monooxime (DAM) method, Colorimetric method, or Autoanalyser method used.
In the management of hyperammonemia, the healthcare team may also focus on altering the diet to reduce the intake of ammoniagenic substances, administering medications to enhance the excretion of ammonia, and in some cases, using dialysis.