Gaps in the anion gap.
OBJECTIVE
To review limitations of the use of serum anion gap in clinical practice.


METHODS
Original reports and reviews.


METHODS
Sources containing the most recent pertinent information.


RESULTS
Theoretical and practical limitations beset the use of serum anion gap. Awareness of these limitations reduces but does not eliminate wrong diagnoses based on the anion gaps.


CONCLUSIONS
Serum anion gap has a limited value in the differential diagnosis of acid-base disorders and can be misleading.
Salem
M M
MM
Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Ill.
Mujais
S K
SK
D000136:Acid-Base Equilibrium / Q000502:physiology*; D000137:Acid-Base Imbalance / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis; D000138:Acidosis / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis; D000471:Alkalosis / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003951:Diagnostic Errors; D006801:Humans