This is an irreversible glucose-protein bond which extends through the life of an erythrocyte. Glycated hemoglobin values are used to assess long-term glucose control in diabetes, especially in insulin-dependent diabetics whose glucose levels are labile, and in whom blood and urine glucose measurements exhibit significant daily variation. GHB measurements reflect the level of control present over the preceding 100-120 days; more recent levels have greater weight. GHB is especially helpful when renal thresholds are high or low. Glycosylated hemoglobin measurements are less frequently needed in stable diabetics. In such patients, whose fasting glucose concentrations are fairly consistent from day to day, there is a correlation between glycosylated hemoglobin and single fasting glucose levels. Continued high levels of blood glucose are reflected in high GHB concentrations. Singer, et al suggest a diagnostic approach in which glycated hemoglobin may be substituted for the glucose tolerance test. They advocate it as well as an adjunct in gestational diabetes.1 It is also useful in evaluation of fetal risk in known type II diabetics who become pregnant. Glycosylated hemoglobin predicts the progression of retinopathy.2
Price: $189.00 |
