1. What is the DuBois BSA Formula?

The DuBois formula is the most widely used equation for calculating body surface area (BSA) from height and weight measurements. It provides an estimate of the total surface area of the human body, which is important for various medical calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the DuBois formula:

Where:

• \( W \) — Weight in kilograms (kg)
• \( H \) — Height in centimeters (cm)
• \( BSA \) — Body surface area in square meters (m²)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the non-linear relationship between body dimensions and surface area through the exponential terms.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: BSA is used to calculate drug dosages for chemotherapy, index cardiac outputs, adjust renal function tests, and determine burn size in burn patients.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in centimeters. All values must be valid (weight > 0, height > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use DuBois formula instead of others?
A: The DuBois formula is the most validated and widely accepted BSA calculation method in clinical practice.

Q2: What are normal BSA values?
A: Average BSA is about 1.7 m² for adult men and 1.6 m² for adult women, but varies with body size.

Q3: When is BSA most important?
A: Particularly important for chemotherapy dosing, pediatric dosing, and when calculating cardiac index.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: Less accurate at extremes of body size (very obese or very thin individuals) and in children.

Q5: Should this be used for all drug dosing?
A: No, only for drugs where BSA-based dosing is specifically recommended (e.g., chemotherapeutic agents).