SODIUM AND POTASSIUM ELECTROLYTES AND “ BASAL ” SKIN POTENTIAL LEVELS IN MALE AND FEMALE SUBJECTS

Abstract

When palmar skin potential level (SPL) is recorded during periods of minimal arousal sweating, and a concentration of potassium chloride within physiological limits is used for the external electrolyte, the value of the “basal” SPL (BSPL) recorded can be expressed as a function of the external/epidermal potassium concentration gradient.The present study reports comparison of BSPL values obtained with the use of physiologically comparable concentrations of sodium and potassium chlorides. The results suggest the possibility that the BSPL methodology may provide a means of monitoring electrolyte shifts in the human subject.In addition, sex differences in BSPL values were demonstrated.