insensible loss


loss

 [laws] the amount by which a quantity or group is diminished; something that escapes from its owner's possession.hearing loss see hearing loss.insensible loss (insensible water loss) the amount of fluid lost on a daily basis from the lungs, skin, and respiratory tract, as well as water excreted in the feces; the exact amount cannot be measured, but it is estimated to be between 40 cc and 600 cc in an adult under normal circumstances. See also sweating.

insensible loss

A loss of body fluid that is not easily measured, e.g., the moisture released in exhalation and perspiration. The amount of fluid typically lost is about 200 mL a day. Insensible fluid losses increase in any disease or condition that increases diffusion of liquid from the skin or the lungs, e.g., in burns, climatic changes, fever, or heavy exercise. Synonym: insensible fluid lossSee also: loss