HomeAnswersPathologyanion gapMy lab reports showed that my anion gap is 1 mEq/L but it is not flagged. Why?

What does an anion gap of 1 mEq/L indicate?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At June 25, 2023
Reviewed AtAugust 10, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I was recently going over lab tests that were done and it says my anion gap is 1 but it is not flagged. All other levels are in the completely normal range. Is this a lab error or not? My doctor was concerned but did not elaborate. Kindly suggest.

Answered by Dr. Utkarsh Sharma

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will definitely help you regarding it. If you feel otherwise healthy and fit, then a low anion gap is most commonly (in about 90 percent of occasions) due to a laboratory error. Because the anion gap is calculated from the results of the electrolyte panel, accurate measurement of the individual electrolytes is necessary. If even any one of the electrolyte measurements is erred then the anion gap result will not be accurate. Low serum albumin levels are another cause of low anion gap but as you said all other test results are within normal limits then it is likely that it is a laboratory error only. If you feel certain vague symptoms then it is prudent to get a repeat test but, if you feel otherwise fit and fine, then it is just safe to ignore this result. I hope this helped, take care, and keep lifting weights. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Utkarsh Sharma
Dr. Utkarsh Sharma

Pathology

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