The anion gap is a calculated value that helps identify the presence of unmeasured anions in the blood, often used to diagnose metabolic acidosis. It is derived from the concentrations of sodium, chloride, and bicarbonate ions, and a high anion gap indicates the presence of additional acids, while a normal gap suggests loss of bicarbonate or renal tubular acidosis.

Anion Gap

anion gap

calculated value

unmeasured anions

Metabolic acidosis is a condition characterized by an excess of acid in the body due to increased acid production, decreased acid excretion, or loss of bicarbonate. It can result in symptoms like rapid breathing, confusion, and fatigue, and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to address the underlying cause and restore acid-base balance.

metabolic acidosis

concentrations of sodium

Chloride ions (Cl-) are negatively charged ions formed when chlorine gains an electron, playing a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, nerve impulse transmission, and fluid balance in biological systems. They are also significant in industrial processes, such as water purification and the production of chlorinated compounds.

Chloride Ions

Bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) play a crucial role in maintaining the body's pH balance by acting as a buffer system in blood plasma, which helps to neutralize excess acids or bases. They are also essential in the transport of carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs, where it is exhaled as part of the body's respiratory process.

bicarbonate ions

high anion gap

additional acids

normal gap

loss of bicarbonate

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is a medical condition characterized by the kidneys' inability to properly acidify urine, leading to a systemic metabolic acidosis despite a normal glomerular filtration rate. This disorder can result from defects in either the proximal or distal renal tubules, and is classified into different types based on the specific tubular dysfunction and associated electrolyte imbalances.

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