Glycohemoglobin GHB
Category:
Glycohemoglobin (GHB) total
Description
Glycohemoglobin is a blood test that checks the amount of sugar (glucose) bound to hemoglobin. Only a small percentage of hemoglobin in the blood (4% to 6%) has glucose bound to it. People with diabetes or other conditions that increase the blood glucose levels have more glycohemoglobin.
The glycohemoglobin A1c test checks the long-term control of blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. Most doctors think the glycohemoglobin A1c level is the best way to check how well a person is controlling diabetes.
Its concentration is measured by means of analysis of a blood sample drawn from the vein in the arm.
Purpose of the test
This test is done to check evolution of diabetes treatment.
A home blood glucose test measures the level of blood glucose only at the moment. Blood glucose levels change during the day: diet, exercise, and the level of insulin in blood.
Glucose binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells at a steady rate. Since red blood cells last 3 to 4 months, glycohemoglobin A1c test shows how much glucose is in the plasma part of blood. This test shows how well diabetes has been controlled in the last 2 to 3 months and whether diabetes medicine needs to be changed.
Reference range values
Glycohemoglobin A1c:
- Adults: 4.5%-5.7%
- Children below 6 years old 7.5-8.5%
- Children ages 6-12 years old < 8%
- Teens ages 13-19 years old <7.5%
Total glycohemoglobin: 5.3%-7.5%
Abnormal findings
A glycohemoglobin A1c level above 8% means that your diabetes has been poorly controlled over the last 2 to 3 months.
Some medical conditions can increase A1c levels. These conditions include Cushing's syndrome, pheochromocytoma, and polycystic ovary syndrome.