respiratory acidosis

n.

Acidosis that is caused by retention of carbon dioxide, due to inadequate pulmonary ventilation or hypoventilation, and that results in a decrease in blood pH unless compensated for by renal retention of bicarbonate.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.