In diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar states, high glucose lowers the measured sodium. The corrected value shows the true water balance; a normal or high corrected sodium in DKA indicates significant water loss.
How to use the Corrected Sodium Calculator
- Measured sodium
- Glucose
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter measured sodium and glucose.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Measured sodium | In mEq/L |
| Glucose | Units: mg/dL, mmol/L |
What each result means
- Corrected sodium (Katz 1.6) = [Measured sodium] + 1.6×([Glucose] – 100)÷100
- Corrected sodium (Hillier 2.4) = [Measured sodium] + 2.4×([Glucose] – 100)÷100
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
Corrected Na = measured Na + factor × (glucose (mg/dL) − 100) ÷ 100
Katz: factor 1.6 · Hillier: factor 2.4
Worked example
Inputs — Measured sodium: 130 mEq/L; Glucose: 600 mg/dL.
Results — Corrected sodium (Katz 1.6) = 138 mEq/L; Corrected sodium (Hillier 2.4) = 142 mEq/L.
Key terms
- Pseudohyponatraemia
- Falsely low sodium due to lab method with high lipids or proteins (different from dilution by glucose).
Frequently asked questions
Which factor should I use?
Hillier's 2.4 is more accurate at very high glucose; 1.6 is traditional.
Why does glucose lower sodium?
It pulls water out of cells into the blood, diluting sodium.
Should I treat the measured or corrected sodium?
Fluid choices are guided by the corrected value.