Using the results of the comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), the anion gap is the difference between measured cations (positively charged ions like Na+ and K+) and measured anions (negatively charged ions like Cl- and HCO3-). There are three types: serum, plasma, and urine anion gaps.
The anion gap tells you if your electrolytes are unbalanced, which can cause changes in the acid levels in the blood. An anion gap result can be low, normal, or high. A low anion gap (less than 6 mEq/L) may indicate: Low levels of albumin in the blood (hypoalbuminemia) Plasma cell disorder Monoclonal protein Bromide intoxication Normal variant
Normal anion gap readings range from 3–10 milliequivalents per liter. Readings outside this range may indicate a pH imbalance, and this can stem from a wide variety of health issues. Having an
The anion gap is primarily used to determine the cause of metabolic acidosis, a condition where the body is producing too much acid or not enough acid is being removed from the body. The list below details some potential causes of metabolic acidosis that is associated with a high anion gap.
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what is an anion gap
