Body Surface Area Calculator
Category: Other HealthWhat is a BSA Calculator?
A Body Surface Area (BSA) Calculator is a tool used to estimate the total surface area of the human body. It is commonly used in medical fields for tasks like determining appropriate medication dosages, particularly for chemotherapy, and assessing metabolic rates.
BSA Calculation Formulas
DuBois & DuBois Formula:
BSA = 0.007184 × Height0.725 × Weight0.425
Mosteller Formula:
BSA = √((Height × Weight) / 3600)
Haycock Formula:
BSA = 0.024265 × Height0.3964 × Weight0.5378
How to Use the BSA Calculator
Follow these steps to calculate your Body Surface Area:
- Select Units: Choose between Metric (cm and kg) or Imperial (feet, inches, and lbs).
- Enter Height:
- For Metric, input height in centimeters (cm).
- For Imperial, input height in feet and inches.
- Enter Weight:
- For Metric, input weight in kilograms (kg).
- For Imperial, input weight in pounds (lbs).
- Select a Formula: Choose from DuBois & DuBois, Mosteller, or Haycock.
- Calculate: Click the "Calculate BSA" button to view your results.
Understanding Your BSA Results
The BSA value is presented in square meters (m²) and reflects the total surface area of your body. This measurement is used in various medical applications, including:
- Medication Dosages: BSA helps calculate precise medication doses, especially for chemotherapy and other treatments.
- Renal Function: BSA is used to normalize kidney function tests like the glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
- Metabolic Studies: It provides insights into energy expenditure and metabolic rates.
FAQs
Which BSA Formula Should I Use?
The DuBois & DuBois formula is widely used and suitable for most scenarios. However, the Mosteller formula is simpler and equally accurate for general purposes. The Haycock formula is often preferred for children due to its accuracy for smaller body sizes.
How Accurate Are BSA Calculations?
BSA calculations are estimates based on statistical models. While they are accurate for most individuals, they may be less reliable for extremely tall, short, or obese people. Always consult a healthcare professional for critical decisions.
Why is BSA Important?
BSA is crucial in medical settings for accurate drug dosing, especially in therapies where precise measurements are critical, like chemotherapy. It also standardizes test results like GFR to ensure consistency across patients of different body sizes.
Can I Use Imperial Units?
Yes, the BSA Calculator supports both Metric and Imperial units. It automatically converts your input to the required units for accurate calculations.
Disclaimer
This BSA Calculator is a helpful tool for educational purposes. For medical treatments and decisions, always consult with a healthcare provider to ensure accuracy and safety.