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Electrolytes & Minerals

Anion Gap

Normal range 8-16 mEq/L (8-16 mmol/L SI). Specimen: Serum or plasma (calculated).

Also known as: AG.

8-16 mEq/LReference range

Reference range

ConventionalmEq/L
816
SImmol/L
816

Combined adult band. LabVals does not publish separate men's, women's, or pediatric ranges for Anion Gap; those can be narrower than the band shown.

Anion Gap reference range, specimen, and conversion details
SpecimenSerum or plasma (calculated)
Conventional range8-16 mEq/L
SI range8-16 mmol/L
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
PanelElectrolytes & Minerals

Convert any Anion Gap result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Anion Gap?

The standard teaching reference range for Anion Gap is 8-16 mEq/L in conventional units, or 8-16 mmol/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum or plasma (calculated).

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population - always use the range printed on the actual result.

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Calculated as Na⁺ − (Cl⁻ + HCO₃⁻).
  • A high gap points to accumulated acids - remember the MUDPILES causes.
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