What does an anion gap of 1 indicate on my lab report?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was recently going over lab tests that were done, and it says my anion gap is one, 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. How to manage?

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern and will definitely help you regarding it. If you feel otherwise healthy and fit, a low anion gap is most commonly (about 90 percent of the time) 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, so 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 and also check for anemia. If you feel otherwise fit and fine, then it is just safe to ignore this result.

I hope this helped.

Thank you.