Anion gap

The anion gap is a measurement used by doctors to help identify the cause of certain acid-base imbalances in the blood. It calculates the difference between common positively charged ions (like sodium and potassium) and negatively charged ions (like chloride and bicarbonate). A normal anion gap suggests a typical imbalance, while an increased gap indicates the presence of unmeasured acids, often due to conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis or kidney failure. It helps pinpoint underlying issues and guides appropriate treatment.