The anion gap is representative of positive versus negative charges. when we are calculating anion gap, we are calculating a balance between positive and negative charges. correcting sodium for anion gap will mislead our calculation in terms of correct estimation of positive charges. Corrected sodium is a very useful tool to determine status of hydration in DKA. If Patients’ sodium is normal or high and glucose is elevated, this represents sever hydration. if sodium is low after correction, it could represent too much hydration.
Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine