Discussion
Monday February 8, 1999 - Question 3
The physician communicates the following clinical laboratory information to you regarding the previously presented case. Electrolytes: Na+ 140 mEq/L, K+ 2.5 mEq/L, Cl- 105 mEq/L, HCO3- 7 mEq/L.
Which of the following statements about the anion gap is correct?
A. The serum potassium concentration is imperative
to the calculation of the anion gap.
B. The blood glucose and BUN are also necessary
for calculation of the anion gap.
C. A large anion gap may be indicative of the
presence of an acidosis.
D. A normal anion gap ranges from 25 to 30.
E. Acidosis is always accompanied by a large
anion gap.