Understanding Anion Gap and Metabolic Acidosis
The Anion Gap measures the difference between primary measured serum cations and anions, serving as a vital diagnostic tool for evaluating metabolic acid-base disorders. Because serum albumin acts as the primary unmeasured plasma anion, correcting the anion gap for hypoalbuminemia prevents missed diagnoses of high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA). Our advanced Free Online Advanced Anion Gap Calculator computes measured and albumin-corrected anion gaps instantly.
Why Correct for Serum Albumin?
For every 1 g/dL decrease in serum albumin below normal levels, the serum anion gap drops by approximately 2.5 mEq/L. Albumin correction reveals hidden metabolic acidosis that might otherwise be masked by low protein states.