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Therefore, it is important to correct the calculated value of the anion gap for the concentration of albumin, particularly in critically ill patients. [ 18 ] [ 19 ] [ 20 ] Corrections can be made for the albumin concentration using the Figge-Jabor-Kazda-Fencl equation to give an accurate anion gap calculation as exemplified below.
The urine anion gap is an 'artificial' and calculated measure that is representative of the unmeasured ions in urine. Usually the most important unmeasured ion in urine is NH 4 + since it is the most important form of acid excretion by the kidney. [ 5 ]
High anion gap metabolic acidosis is a form of metabolic acidosis characterized by a high anion gap (a medical value based on the concentrations of ions in a patient's serum). Metabolic acidosis occurs when the body produces too much acid , or when the kidneys are not removing enough acid from the body.
The serum anion gap is useful for determining whether a base deficit is caused by addition of acid or loss of bicarbonate. Base deficit with elevated anion gap indicates addition of acid (e.g., ketoacidosis). Base deficit with normal anion gap indicates loss of bicarbonate (e.g., diarrhea).
Elevated protein (albumin, globulins) may theoretically increase the anion gap but high levels are not usually encountered clinically. Hypoalbuminaemia, which is frequently encountered clinically, will mask an anion gap. As a rule of thumb, a decrease in serum albumin by 1 G/L will decrease the anion gap by 0.25 mmol/L [citation needed]
In respiratory acidosis, the kidney produces and excretes ammonium (NH 4 +) and monophosphate, generating bicarbonate in the process while clearing acid. There is also an excretion of Cl- and a reabsorption of sodium, resulting in a negative urinary anion gap.
As elevated lactate persists, uric acid, ketoacids, and free fatty acids further increase the anion gap. In adults and children, the high concentrations of lactate cause significant discomfort in the muscles.
The anion gap (AG) without potassium is calculated first and if a metabolic acidosis is present, results in either a high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA) or a normal anion gap acidosis (NAGMA). A low anion gap is usually an oddity of measurement, rather than a clinical concern.
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