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Inflammatory & Other Chemistry

Osmolality, Serum

Normal range 275–295 mOsm/kg (275–295 mmol/kg SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: serum osmolality.

275–295 mOsm/kgCritical: read below

Reference range

ConventionalmOsm/kg
275295
SImmol/kg
275295
SpecimenSerum
Conventional range275–295 mOsm/kg
SI range275–295 mmol/kg
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
Critical value< 265 or > 320 mOsm/kg
PanelInflammatory & Other Chemistry

Convert any Osmolality, Serum result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Osmolality, Serum?

The standard teaching reference range for Osmolality, Serum is 275–295 mOsm/kg in conventional units, or 275–295 mmol/kg in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

A commonly taught critical (panic) value is < 265 or > 320 mOsm/kg. Critical results are reported to the provider immediately under your facility's policy.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Osmolality, Serum

  • Dehydration
  • Hypernatremia
  • Hyperglycemia
  • Toxic alcohol ingestion (osmolar gap)

Below the range

Common causes of a low Osmolality, Serum

  • SIADH
  • Overhydration
  • Hyponatremia

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Estimated as 2×Na + glucose/18 + BUN/2.8; a large measured-calculated gap suggests a toxic ingestion.

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