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 a more accurate estimation than simple weight-based dosing for many medical applications.

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 exponential coefficients.

3. Importance of BSA Calculation

Details: BSA is crucial for determining medication dosages (especially chemotherapy), calculating cardiac index, adjusting renal clearance measurements, and assessing metabolic rate.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and height in centimeters. For best accuracy, measure height without shoes and weight with minimal clothing.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use DuBois instead of other BSA formulas?
A: DuBois is the most validated formula with extensive clinical use, though newer formulas may be more accurate for extreme body types.

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

Q3: How does BSA differ from BMI?
A: BSA estimates total body surface while BMI estimates body fat based on height and weight. They serve different clinical purposes.

Q4: Are there limitations to the DuBois formula?
A: It may be less accurate for very obese or very lean individuals, and for children.

Q5: When should BSA be used for drug dosing?
A: Primarily for chemotherapy, some antibiotics, and other drugs with narrow therapeutic windows where precise dosing is critical.