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Fluids and electrolytes

Serum Osmolality

3 inputsFluids and electrolytes

Calculated plasma osmolality.

Serum Osmolality calculator

Result

290mOsm/kg

Normal (275–295)

100 to 170 mmol/L

2 to 100 mmol/L

1 to 50 mmol/L

How to use it

  1. 1

    Calc osmolality = 2×Na + glucose + urea (mmol/L). UK units. US version: 2×Na + glucose/18 + BUN/2.8.

  2. 2

    Compare to measured osmolality. Osmolal gap = measured − calculated. Gap > 10: suspect toxic alcohols.

  3. 3

    HHS threshold. Hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state: effective osmolality > 320 mOsm/kg.

When to use it

HHS (Hyperosmolar Hyperglycaemic State)
Glucose-driven hyperosmolality — effective osmolality uses 2×Na + glucose.
SIADH vs. osmotic hyponatraemia
Low serum osmolality (< 275) = hypotonic hyponatraemia — confirms SIADH territory.
Toxic alcohol screen
Osmolal gap > 10: check ethanol, methanol, ethylene glycol.

A reference for clinicians and students, not medical advice. A score supports a decision; it does not make one. Check every result against the patient in front of you and your local protocol.

At a glance

Specialty
Fluids and electrolytes
Inputs
3
Type
Formula

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