Total-body potassium (K⁺) content and appropriate distribution of K⁺ across the cell membrane is vitally important for normal cellular function. Total-body K⁺ content is determined by changes in excretion of K⁺ by the kidneys in response to intake levels. Under normal conditions, insulin and β-adrenergic tone also make important contributions in maintaining internal distribution of K⁺. However, despite these homeostatic pathways, disorders of altered K⁺ homeostasis are common. Appreciating the pathophysiology and regulatory influences that determine the internal distribution and external balance of K⁺ is critical in designing effective treatments to restore K⁺ homeostasis. We provide an up-to-date review of the regulatory aspects of normal K⁺ physiology as a preface to highlighting common disorders in K⁺ homeostasis and their treatment. This review of K⁺ homeostasis is designed as a resource for clinicians and a tool for educators who are teaching trainees to understand the pivotal factors involved in K⁺ balance.

全身钾 (K ⁺ ) 含量和 K ⁺在细胞膜上的适当分布对于正常的细胞功能至关重要。全身 K ⁺含量取决于肾脏对 K ⁺的排泄量随摄入水平的变化而变化。在正常情况下，胰岛素和 β-肾上腺素对维持 K ⁺的内部分布也有重要贡献。然而，尽管有这些稳态途径，K ⁺稳态改变的疾病很常见。^{了解决定 K +}的内部分布和外部平衡的病理生理学和调节影响对于设计有效的治疗方法来恢复 K ⁺稳态至关重要。^{我们提供了对正常 K +}生理学的监管方面的最新评论，作为强调 K ⁺稳态及其治疗的常见疾病的序言。^{这篇关于 K +}稳态的综述旨在为临床医生提供资源，并为教受训者了解 K ⁺平衡所涉及的关键因素的教育工作者提供工具。