The Alveolar-arterial gradient (A-a gradient), is used to compare the causes of hypoxemia. A-a Gradient EquationA - a gradient = PAO2 - PaO2 Where: PAO2 = alveolar PO2 (calculated from the alveolar gas equation) PaO2 = arterial PO2 (measured in arterial blood) The Alveolar Gas EquationPAO2 = PIO2 - PACO2/R Where: PIO2 = FIO2 x (760 mmHg - 47mmHg) = inspired O2 - FIO2 = 21% at sea level atmospheric pressure = 0.21 - 760 mmHg = atmospheric pressure at sea level - 47 mmHg = H2O pressure PACO2 = arterial PCO2 measured in plasma R = respiratory exchange ratio or respiratory quotient = 0.8 under normal conditions Values and MeaningThe normal A-a gradient is < 10 mmHg, but can range from 5-20 mmHg in a normal individual. An increased A-a gradient suggests a diffusion defect, V/Q (ventilation/perfusion) defect, or right-to-left shunt. less
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