Acid–base disorders mnemonic

Causes of a raised anion gap metabolic acidosis

The mnemonic

MUDPILES

What each word stands for

  • MMethanol
  • UUraemia
  • DDiabetic ketoacidosis
  • PPropylene glycol
  • IIsoniazid, iron
  • LLactic acidosis
  • EEthylene glycol
  • SSalicylates

Why it matters clinically

A raised anion gap narrows the cause quickly. Check lactate, ketones, renal function, and think of toxic alcohols.

Where it stops being reliable

Older versions of the mnemonic include paraldehyde and others; newer lists differ. Do not treat it as complete.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Acid–base disorders mnemonic?

MUDPILES. It helps you recall: Causes of a raised anion gap metabolic acidosis.

What does "M" stand for?

Methanol

What does "U" stand for?

Uraemia

What does "D" stand for?

Diabetic ketoacidosis

What are all the parts of the MUDPILES mnemonic?

M: Methanol; U: Uraemia; D: Diabetic ketoacidosis; P: Propylene glycol; I: Isoniazid, iron; L: Lactic acidosis; E: Ethylene glycol; S: Salicylates.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Acid–base disorders in General Medicine.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Older versions of the mnemonic include paraldehyde and others; newer lists differ. Do not treat it as complete.

How is this useful clinically?

A raised anion gap narrows the cause quickly. Check lactate, ketones, renal function, and think of toxic alcohols.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a General Medicine question about Acid–base disorders.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.