Body Surface Area Calculator

Body surface area (BSA) is a key measure used in various medical contexts to estimate the surface area of the human body. Direct measurements can be challenging, so numerous formulas help provide estimates.

These calculations are particularly important for medical applications because BSA is a more accurate reflection of metabolic needs than body weight alone.

Estimating BSA is crucial for many clinical applications. It is commonly used when calculating drug dosages, such as in chemotherapy, where BSA provides a more consistent measure compared to body weight. This approach helps tailor treatments to individual needs.

Despite some shortcomings, BSA-based dosage calculations remain widely used. For certain cases, BMI might offer a better estimate. However, BSA calculations tend to give more reliable results.

Various formulas have been developed to estimate BSA. Each formula provides different calculations based on height and weight to cater to a range of body types.

Some well-known formulas include the Du Bois, Mosteller, and Haycock formulas. These equations serve different purposes, and their effectiveness may vary depending on specific circumstances.

Average Size Overview

DescriptionSquare FeetSquare Meters
Newborn Child2.690.25
Two-Year-Old Child5.380.5
Ten-Year-Old Child12.271.14
Adult Female17.221.6
Adult Male20.451.9

These average measurements showcase how BSA varies with age and sex.

Different methods for calculating BSA reflect on its significance in ensuring accurate and personalized medical care.

Understanding these average sizes helps provide perspective on typical BSA values across different age groups and sexes.