Anion gap in hyperproteinaemia: With reference to tuberculosis patients

Abstract

Objectives: (1)To determine the level of electrolyte in TB patients (2) To see if these are significantly different from those of control-match for age and sex (3) To calculate the anion gap levels in TB patient and (4) to see if the anion gap levels could be used in the management of patient with tuberculosis.
Patient and Methods: Anion gap level was studied in thirty adult patients with tuberculosis. Plasma concentration of sodium, potassium, chloride and bicarbonate were estimated and anion gap calculated in the patients and twenty five apparently healthy adults.
Results: Results obtained were compared statistically and it was found that sodium, potassium bicabonate total protein albumin and globulin were significantly different while their anion gap and chloride levels were found not to be statistically significantly different.
Conclusion: It does appear that anion gap calculation could not be used as diagnostic or prognostic parameter in patient with tuberculosis.

Keywords: Anion Gap, Hyperproteinaemia, Tuberculosis Patients

Journal of College of Medicine Vol. 11 (2) 2006: 111-114