The Corrected Sodium Calculator adjusts serum sodium levels in cases of hyperglycemia (elevated blood glucose levels). Hyperglycemia can cause dilutional hyponatremia, where elevated glucose levels pull water into the extracellular space, leading to artificially low sodium measurements. Correcting sodium levels is crucial for accurate clinical assessment and management, especially in diabetic patients and those with metabolic disorders.
This tool is widely used by healthcare professionals to guide treatment decisions for patients with electrolyte imbalances and hyperglycemia.
Formula of Corrected Sodium Calculator
The formula for calculating corrected sodium is:
corrected_sodium = measured_sodium + 0.016 × (blood_glucose – 100)
Detailed Formula Components:
- measured_sodium:
The serum sodium level directly measured from a blood test, typically expressed in milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). - blood_glucose:
The measured blood glucose level, usually expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). - 100:
The reference normal blood glucose level in mg/dL, used as a baseline for correction. - 0.016:
A correction factor that represents the average sodium increase per 1 mg/dL rise in blood glucose above 100 mg/dL. - corrected_sodium:
The adjusted sodium level, accounting for the dilutional effects of hyperglycemia.
Key Notes:
- This formula is especially useful for diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic states.
- Ensure consistent units when using this formula for accuracy.
Pre-Calculated Values Table
This table shows corrected sodium levels for various measured sodium and blood glucose values:Measured Sodium (mEq/L) Blood Glucose (mg/dL) Corrected Sodium (mEq/L) 135 200 136.6 140 250 141.8 135 300 138.4 145 400 147.6 130 500 138.0
Example of Corrected Sodium Calculator
Scenario:
A patient has the following lab results:
- Measured sodium: 135 mEq/L
- Blood glucose: 250 mg/dL
Calculate the corrected sodium level.
Step-by-Step Solution:
- Identify the formula:
corrected_sodium = measured_sodium + 0.016 × (blood_glucose – 100) - Substitute the values:
measured_sodium = 135 mEq/L
blood_glucose = 250 mg/dLcorrected_sodium = 135 + 0.016 × (250 – 100) - Perform the calculation:
corrected_sodium = 135 + 0.016 × 150
corrected_sodium = 135 + 2.4 = 137.4 mEq/L
Result:
The corrected sodium level is 137.4 mEq/L.
Most Common FAQs
Hyperglycemia can cause a shift of water into the extracellular space, leading to dilutional hyponatremia. Correcting sodium levels accounts for this effect and provides an accurate assessment of sodium concentration.
The normal range for serum sodium is 135–145 mEq/L. Levels outside this range can indicate health issues like dehydration, kidney problems, or metabolic disturbances.
This formula is specifically designed for correcting sodium levels in hyperglycemic patients. It is not applicable for other causes of hyponatremia, such as renal failure or SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion).