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The anion gap is a measure used to detect changes in the balance of chemicals (ions) in your blood. It compares the amount of positively charged ions (like sodium) with negatively charged ions (like chloride and bicarbonate). When the anion gap is higher than normal, it can suggest there are unusual substances in your blood, which might be a sign of specific health issues such as metabolic problems or certain types of poisoning.
Several factors can influence the anion gap, a measure used in pathology to assess the balance of electrolytes and acids in the body. Changes in levels of substances like sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate directly affect the calculation of the anion gap. Conditions that alter the body's acid-base balance, such as metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, can also impact the anion gap: acidosis typically raises it, while alkalosis tends to lower it. Kidney function plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance, which in turn affects the anion gap. Additionally, medications and various diseases or disorders can contribute to fluctuations in the anion gap by influencing electrolyte levels and acid-base status.
