1. What is the DuBois BSA Formula?

The DuBois formula is a mathematical equation used to estimate body surface area (BSA) from height and weight measurements. It is widely used in medical practice for drug dosing and clinical assessments.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the DuBois formula:

Where:

• \( H \) — Height in centimeters (cm)
• \( W \) — Weight in kilograms (kg)
• 0.007184 — Constant coefficient
• 0.725 — Height exponent
• 0.425 — Weight exponent

Explanation: The formula calculates body surface area based on the relationship between height and weight, providing an estimate in square meters.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: Accurate BSA estimation is crucial for determining appropriate medication dosages, calculating cardiac index, and assessing nutritional status in clinical practice.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height in centimeters, weight in kilograms. Both values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use the DuBois formula instead of other BSA formulas?
A: The DuBois formula is one of the most widely validated and commonly used BSA formulas in medical practice, though other formulas like Mosteller may also be used.

Q2: What are typical BSA values?
A: Average BSA for adults is approximately 1.7 m² for men and 1.6 m² for women, though this varies with body size.

Q3: When is BSA measurement important?
A: BSA is particularly important for chemotherapy dosing, pediatric drug calculations, and in burn assessment for fluid resuscitation.

Q4: Are there limitations to the DuBois formula?
A: The formula may be less accurate in extremes of body habitus (very obese or very thin individuals) and in specific populations like children.

Q5: Can BSA be measured directly?
A: While formulas provide estimates, direct measurement of BSA is complex and not practical for clinical use, making formulas the standard approach.