Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG)

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Also known as: A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG) , HA1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG) , HbA1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG) , Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose MPG, Hgb A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG)

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Mean Plasma Glucose

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The Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG) test contains 1 test with 2 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose (MPG) test is a blood test that provides crucial information about a person's long-term blood glucose control. It combines the measurement of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), a marker of average blood glucose levels over several months, with a calculated estimation of mean plasma glucose (MPG), an indicator of average blood sugar levels. This test is essential for monitoring and managing diabetes.

Also Known As: A1c Test, HbA1c Test, Glycohemoglobin Test, Glycated Hemoglobin Test, Glycosylated Hemoglobin Test, HbA1c with MPG Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is a Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test ordered?

A1c may be requested as part of a routine physical examination or when someone is suspected of having diabetes due to characteristic signs or symptoms of high blood sugar, such as:

  • Increased thirst and fluid intake
  • Increased urination
  • Increase in hunger
  • Fatigue
  • Vision is hazy
  • Infections that take a long time to heal

Adults who are overweight and have the following additional risk factors may consider doing the A1c test:

  • Physically inactive
  • Diabetes in a first-degree relative
  • Race/ethnicity at high risk such as African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders
  • Blood pressure that is high
  • A lipid profile that is abnormal.
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome 
  • Cardiovascular disease 
  • Insulin resistance and other conditions links to insulin resistance

People who have not been diagnosed with diabetes but have been assessed to be at an increased risk of developing diabetes should have their A1c levels tested at least once a year.

Monitoring

The A1c test may be performed 2 to 4 times a year, depending on the type of diabetes a person has, how well their diabetes is controlled, and the healthcare provider's recommendations. If diabetics are fulfilling treatment goals and have stable glycemic control, the American Diabetes Association advises A1c testing at least twice a year. A1c may be ordered quarterly when someone is first diagnosed with diabetes or if control isn't good.

What does a Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose blood test check for?

Hemoglobin A1c, often known as A1c or glycated hemoglobin, is hemoglobin that has been attached to glucose. By assessing the proportion of glycated hemoglobin, the A1c test determines the average quantity of glucose in the blood during the previous 2 to 3 months.

Hemoglobin is a protein present inside red blood cells that transports oxygen.

Glycated hemoglobin is generated in proportion to the amount of glucose in the blood. Once glucose attaches to hemoglobin, it stays there for the duration of the red blood cell's life, which is usually about 120 days. The most common kind of glycated hemoglobin is known as A1c. A1c is created on a daily basis and is gradually removed from the bloodstream as older RBCs die and younger RBCs replace them.

This test can be used to detect and diagnose diabetes, as well as the risk of developing it. According to the American Diabetes Association's standards of medical care in diabetes, diabetes can be diagnosed using either A1c or glucose.

This test can also be used to track the progress of a diabetic patient's treatment. It aids in determining how well a person's glucose levels have been controlled over time by medication. An A1c of less than 7% suggests good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics for monitoring reasons.

Lab tests often ordered with a Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test:

When an HbA1c test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation of diabetes management and associated complications. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Fasting Blood Glucose:

    • Purpose: To measure blood sugar levels after a period of fasting.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To provide a snapshot of current blood glucose control and to correlate with HbA1c results.

  2. Postprandial Glucose Test:

    • Purpose: To measure blood sugar levels after meals.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess how well diabetes is being managed post-meal and to adjust dietary or medication plans accordingly.

  3. Fructosamine:

    • Purpose: To provide an average of blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 weeks.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To complement HbA1c for patients with fluctuating glucose levels or in situations where HbA1c may be unreliable.

  4. Lipid Profile:

    • Purpose: To measure levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess cardiovascular risk, as diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

  5. Kidney Function Test:

    • Purpose: To evaluate kidney function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Diabetes can lead to kidney damage (diabetic nephropathy), and these tests monitor kidney health.

  6. Microalbumin:

    • Purpose: To detect small amounts of albumin in the urine.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To check for early signs of diabetic kidney disease.

  7. Liver Function Test:

    • Purpose: To assess liver health.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate liver function, as diabetes can increase the risk of fatty liver disease and other liver conditions.

  8. Thyroid Function Test:

    • Purpose: To evaluate thyroid function.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Diabetes and thyroid disorders often coexist, and thyroid dysfunction can affect blood glucose control.

  9. C-Reactive Protein (CRP) or High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP):

    • Purpose: To detect inflammation.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess for cardiovascular risk and other complications related to chronic inflammation in diabetes.

These tests, when ordered alongside an HbA1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose, provide a comprehensive view of an individual’s diabetes management and overall health. They are crucial for monitoring and adjusting diabetes treatment plans, assessing the risk of complications, and managing comorbid conditions. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s diabetic status, management plan, and overall health profile.

Conditions where a Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test is recommended:

  • Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes require regular monitoring of their blood sugar control. The Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test helps determine if their treatment plan is effective.
  • Prediabetes: This test is also valuable for individuals with prediabetes, as it can track changes in blood sugar levels over time.

How does my health care provider use a Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test?

Adults can use the hemoglobin A1c test to screen for and diagnose diabetes and prediabetes.

A fasting glucose or oral glucose tolerance test should be done to screen or diagnose diabetes.

Monitoring

The A1c test is also used to track diabetics' glucose control over time. Diabetics strive to maintain blood glucose levels that are as close to normal as feasible. This helps to reduce the risks of consequences associated with chronically high blood sugar levels, such as progressive damage to body organs such as the kidneys, eyes, cardiovascular system, and nerves. The result of the A1c test depicts the average quantity of glucose in the blood over the previous 2-3 months. This can help diabetics and their healthcare professionals determine whether the steps they're taking to control their diabetes are working or if they need to be tweaked.

A1c is a blood test that is usually used to help newly diagnosed diabetics identify how high their uncontrolled blood glucose levels have been in the previous 2-3 months. The test may be ordered multiple times throughout the control period, and then at least twice a year after that to ensure that good control is maintained.

What does my Hemoglobin A1c test result mean?

HbA1c levels is currently reported as a percentage for monitoring glucose control, and it is suggested that most diabetics try to keep their hemoglobin A1c below 7%. The closer diabetics can keep their A1c to the therapeutic objective of less than 7% without experiencing abnormally low blood glucose, the better their diabetes is controlled. The risk of problems rises as the A1c rises.

However, a person with type 2 diabetes may have an A1c goal set by their healthcare professional. The length of time since diagnosis, the presence of other diseases as well as diabetes complications, the risk of hypoglycemia complications, life expectancy, and whether or not the person has a support system and healthcare resources readily available are all factors that may influence the goal.

For example, a person with heart disease who has had type 2 diabetes for many years without diabetic complications may have a higher A1c target set by their healthcare provider, whereas someone who is otherwise healthy and newly diagnosed may have a lower target set by their healthcare provider as long as low blood sugar is not a significant risk.

Most Common Questions About the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test:

Clinical Utility and Interpretation

What is the purpose of the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test?

The Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test is primarily used to monitor a patient's average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months. It's a critical tool for managing diabetes, as it provides a long-term view of blood sugar control, aiding in treatment adjustments.

What does the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test measure, specifically?

The test measures the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that's glycated (coated with glucose). Since red blood cells live for about three months, the test reflects an average glucose level over that period, helping healthcare providers to assess how well diabetes is being managed.

How do healthcare providers interpret the results of the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test?

Results are expressed as a percentage, and the higher the percentage, the higher the average blood glucose levels. Generally, the target for most people with diabetes is below 7%. Results are used to adjust medications, diet, and other management strategies for diabetes.

Clinical Applications

When might a healthcare provider recommend the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test?

Healthcare providers recommend this test for people diagnosed with diabetes to monitor blood sugar control. It's often done every 3-6 months, depending on how well diabetes is controlled. It can also be used for diagnosing type 2 diabetes and prediabetes in conjunction with other diagnostic criteria.

How does the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test contribute to diabetes management?

This test is essential for ongoing diabetes management, as it provides a snapshot of long-term glucose control. It helps in adjusting treatment plans, setting individualized glycemic targets, and may be used to predict the risk of complications related to diabetes.

Comparative Insights

How does the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test compare to daily glucose monitoring?

Unlike daily glucose monitoring, which provides immediate information about blood glucose levels at a specific time, the Hemoglobin A1c test provides an average over several months. While daily monitoring helps with day-to-day management, the Hemoglobin A1c test offers insight into overall long-term control.

Why would a healthcare provider choose the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test over other methods of assessing blood sugar?

The Hemoglobin A1c test is less subject to short-term fluctuations that might occur with daily activities, meals, or illness. It gives a more stable and comprehensive view of blood sugar control over time, assisting in therapeutic decisions without requiring daily monitoring.

Understanding the Relationship Between Hemoglobin A1c and Health Conditions

What role does the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test play in the assessment of complications related to diabetes?

Persistent high levels of Hemoglobin A1c are associated with long-term complications of diabetes, such as kidney disease, eye problems, and nerve damage. Monitoring Hemoglobin A1c levels helps to detect these risks early and take preventative measures.

How can the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test be used in conjunction with other health information?

The test results are often considered along with other information such as patient symptoms, self-monitored blood glucose levels, lifestyle, and treatment regimen. This holistic view enables healthcare providers to create an individualized diabetes management plan.

Additional Questions and Insights

What are the implications of abnormal results in the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test?

An abnormally high Hemoglobin A1c level indicates poor control of blood sugar levels, which may lead to diabetes-related complications. An abnormally low level might suggest overtreatment, risking hypoglycemia. Both scenarios require careful reassessment of the treatment approach.

Does the Hemoglobin A1c with Calculated Mean Plasma Glucose test have utility outside of diabetes diagnosis and management?

While primarily used in the context of diabetes, some studies suggest that high levels of Hemoglobin A1c may also be associated with cardiovascular risk and other metabolic conditions, although its role in these areas is secondary to its central use in diabetes care.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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