When should I correct for albumin?

Hypoalbuminemia lowers the observed gap; correction helps avoid missing a hidden elevated gap.

Anion Gap Calculator

Nephrology Critical Care General Medicine Emergency Medicine

Medical context

Calculate serum anion gap with optional albumin correction for acid-base workups.

Nephrology and medicine teams use this when interpreting renal function, electrolytes, or fluid plans.

This page explains the Anion Gap formula, how to interpret the output, known limitations, and peer-reviewed references so you can verify results against primary sources and local protocols.

It is grouped under Nephrology because kidney function, electrolytes, and renal dosing helpers.

How to use this calculator

Enter the values requested by the Anion Gap calculator using the units shown beside each field.
Review the calculated result and read the interpretation section before acting on the output.
Check limitations and references if the result will change management, dosing, or disposition.
Use the related calculators section when you need supporting values (for example electrolytes, weight, or complementary risk scores).

Calculator

Sodium (mEq/L)Chloride (mEq/L)Bicarbonate (mEq/L)Albumin (g/dL)Optional correction

Result

12 mEq/L

Albumin-corrected: 12

Educational use only. Confirm results with clinical judgment, primary sources, and local protocols. Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Full disclaimer.

Formula

AG = Na − (Cl + HCO₃). Corrected AG ≈ AG + 2.5 × (4 − albumin).

Interpretation

Elevated gap suggests HAGMA etiologies (e.g., MUDPILES/GOLDMARK frameworks).

Limitations

Assay reference ranges vary; always interpret with clinical context and ABG/VBG.

Frequently asked questions

When should I correct for albumin?: Hypoalbuminemia lowers the observed gap; correction helps avoid missing a hidden elevated gap.
Is the Anion Gap result enough to make a treatment decision?: No. Calculators support medical decision-making but do not replace examination, shared decision-making, institutional protocols, or consultant input when stakes are high.
Does Calcmedical store the values I type in?: Inputs are processed in your browser for this session. We do not ask for patient names or medical record numbers. See our privacy policy for hosting and analytics details.

References

Classic acid-base / anion gap reviews