1. What is Delta Gap?

The Delta Gap is used to assess metabolic acidosis by comparing the change in anion gap to the change in bicarbonate. It helps differentiate between different types of metabolic acidosis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Delta Gap equation:

Where:

• Anion Gap — Normally 12 mmol/L
• HCO3- — Normally 24 mmol/L

Explanation: The equation compares the deviation of the measured anion gap from normal (12) to the deviation of bicarbonate from normal (24).

3. Importance of Delta Gap Calculation

Details: Delta Gap helps determine if a metabolic acidosis is purely high anion gap, purely normal anion gap, or a combination of both. It's crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of acid-base disorders.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter anion gap and bicarbonate values in mmol/L. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does the Delta Gap value indicate?
A: A value near 1 suggests pure high anion gap acidosis. Values significantly different from 1 suggest mixed disorders.

Q2: What are normal values for anion gap and bicarbonate?
A: Normal anion gap is 12±2 mmol/L and normal bicarbonate is 24±2 mmol/L.

Q3: When should Delta Gap be calculated?
A: When evaluating metabolic acidosis to determine if it's pure or mixed with other acid-base disorders.

Q4: What are limitations of Delta Gap?
A: It assumes normal baseline values and may be less accurate with extreme values or in chronic conditions.

Q5: How to interpret Delta Gap results?
A: <1 suggests concomitant non-gap acidosis, >1 suggests concomitant metabolic alkalosis, ≈1 suggests pure gap acidosis.