1. What is a 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 practice for drug dosing, chemotherapy regimens, and other clinical calculations where body size matters.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Mosteller formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The Mosteller formula is simple to use and has been validated against more complex calculations.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: Accurate BSA calculation helps determine appropriate medication dosages, especially for chemotherapy, antimicrobial therapy, and pediatric dosing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the patient's weight in kilograms and height in centimeters. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use BSA instead of body weight for dosing?
A: BSA correlates better with metabolic processes and drug distribution than body weight alone.

Q2: What's the average BSA for adults?
A: Average BSA is about 1.7 m² for adult men and 1.6 m² for adult women.

Q3: Are there other BSA formulas?
A: Yes, including DuBois, Haycock, and Gehan-George formulas, but Mosteller is most commonly used.

Q4: How accurate is this calculator?
A: The Mosteller formula is accurate to within 1-2% of more complex methods.

Q5: When is BSA not appropriate for dosing?
A: For drugs primarily distributed in body water or fat, or for obese patients where adjusted body weight may be better.