BSA Calculator - Mosteller Formula

Mosteller BSA Formula:

\[ \text{BSA} = \sqrt{\frac{W \times H}{3600}} \]

Body Surface Area (m²):

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1. What is the Mosteller BSA Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates body surface area (BSA) using the Mosteller formula based on weight and height measurements.

Purpose: BSA is used in medical fields for medication dosing, chemotherapy protocols, and physiological measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mosteller formula:

\[ \text{BSA} = \sqrt{\frac{W \times H}{3600}} \]

Where:

\( \text{BSA} \) — Body surface area (square meters)
\( W \) — Weight (kilograms)
\( H \) — Height (centimeters)

Explanation: The formula calculates BSA by taking the square root of the product of weight and height divided by 3600.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: BSA provides a more accurate measure of metabolic mass than body weight alone, helping to normalize drug dosages and physiological measurements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in centimeters. Both values must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use Mosteller formula instead of others?
A: The Mosteller formula is simple, validated, and widely accepted in clinical practice for its accuracy and ease of use.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The Mosteller formula is accurate to within 1-2% of more complex BSA calculation methods.

Q3: Can I use pounds and inches?
A: This calculator requires metric units (kg and cm). Convert pounds to kg (1 lb = 0.453592 kg) and inches to cm (1 in = 2.54 cm) first.

Q4: What's a normal BSA range?
A: Average BSA is about 1.7 m² for adult men and 1.6 m² for adult women, but varies with body size.

Q5: When is BSA particularly important?
A: BSA is crucial for chemotherapy dosing, pediatric medication, and burn assessment where dosage relates to surface area.