The Livingston formula is a mathematical equation used to estimate an individual's body surface area (BSA) based on their weight and height. BSA is an important metric in clinical contexts, especially for calculating appropriate drug dosages, fluid requirements, and other physiological assessments.
To calculate estimated BSA using the Livingston's formula, aiding in clinical decisions such as medication dosing and treatment planning.
Use to estimate BSA in all patients weighing more than 10 kg, including obese patients. Use is less precise in small children weighing less than 10 kg. The formula, BSA (m2) = 0.1173 × Wt(kg)^0.6466, uses only patient's weight.
Not to be used for calculating BSA based on other formulas.
Looney DP, Sanford DP, Li P, Santee WR, Doughty EM, Potter AW. Formulae for calculating body surface area in modern U.S. Army Soldiers. J Therm Biol. 2020 Aug;92:102650. doi: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2020.102650. Epub 2020 Jun 30. PMID: 32888557. Livingston EH, Lee S. Body surface area estimation in normal-weight and obese patients. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2001;281(3):E586-91. doi:10.1152/ajpendo.2001.281.3.E586.
openEHR-EHR-OBSERVATION.body_weight, openEHR-EHR-OBSERVATION.body_surface_area