age-adjusted MAC
Also written as: MAC — Minimum Alveolar Concentration
Minimum alveolar concentration values modified for pediatric patients based on age-related pharmacodynamic changes.
Full Definition
Age-adjusted MAC refers to the modification of minimum alveolar concentration values to account for the varying anesthetic requirements across pediatric age groups. Neonates and infants require lower MAC values than older children due to immature CNS development and altered drug distribution. The MAC value typically increases from birth, peaks around 6 months to 1 year, then gradually decreases. These adjustments are critical for preventing both inadequate anesthesia and overdose in pediatric patients.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the patient's age when documenting MAC-based dosing decisions.
In Context
- "The anesthesiologist reduced the sevoflurane concentration to 1.8% based on age-adjusted MAC values for the 2-month-old patient." — Anesthetic record documentation
- "Age-adjusted MAC considerations are essential when transitioning from intravenous to inhalational anesthesia in neonates." — Anesthesia textbook