Endocrinology

How does Hypoalbuminemia effect Anion Gap?

Albumin makes up a majority of the anion gap (unmeasured anion protein). Hence in states of low albumin, an anion gap acidosis can falsely appear as a non-anion gap acidosis.

WHY? The albumin will be low – lowering the baseline gap and require much more unmeasured anions to exceed the cutoff of 12.

RULE OF THUMB: For every drop of 10g/L in albumin, drop the anion gap cutoff by 2.5-3mmol. (i.e with an albumin of 30, the anion gap cutoff is now 9)

References

  1. Figge J, Jabor A, Kazda A, and Fencl V. Anion gap and hypoalbuminemia. Crit Care Med 1998 Nov; 26(11) 1807-10
Get Medical Pearls directly to your inbox every week!
Weekly posts with high yield medical knowledge, directly to your mailbox!
Dr. C Humphreys

Internal Medicine

Recent Posts

Older Age and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Mechanism

Older age is recognized as a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea.[1] But why? Suspected…

1 month ago

How does Weight Affect Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Mechanism

Being overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2)/Obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) is one of the most…

1 month ago

Nocturia and OSA: Mechanism

Nocturia is a common symptom associated with obstructive sleep apnea. [1] Img Cred: Am J…

1 year ago

ASD vs. VSD Murmur Difference

ASD (Atrial Septal Defect) Wide, Fixed split S2 (in contrast to the normal variation in…

1 year ago

Mechanism of a Mixed Apnea

Mixed apneas are characterized by absent respiratory effort and airflow in the first section of…

2 years ago

How Does Hypothyroidism Cause Hypoventilation?

Although rare, the differential diagnosis of hypoventilation and hypercapnia respiratory failure includes hypothyroidism. It is…

2 years ago

This website uses cookies.