A valuable laboratory test for evaluating blood sugar levels measure Glycosolated Hemoglobin also known as A1C. Proteins that have glucose molecules attached to them (glycosolated peptides) are elevated seven fold in diabetics. Normally 5-7% of hemoglobin is combined with glucose. Mild elevation in blood sugar results in an A1C concentration of 8-10%, while severe elevation results in concentrations of up to 20%.
Since the average life span of an RBC (red blood cell) is 120 days, the A1C assay represents time averaged value of hemoglobin over the preceding 2-4 months. It is extremely valuable in providing a simple, useful method for assessing treatment effectiveness and patient compliance. A1C determination along with a fasting blood sugar can be used in some cases to diagnose diabetes but it is not the sole criteria for diagnoses. Approximately one third of those with diabetes diagnosed with glycosolated hemoglobin have a normal A1C. An 1C coupled with fasting blood sugar and a 2 hour post prandial level provide a more accurate diagnosis. The A1C assay is helpful in determining the relative glucose load on the system and to monitor therapy.
