Evaluation of Inaccuracies in the Measurement of Glycemia in the Laboratory, by Glucose Meters, and Through Measurement of Hemoglobin A1c
- Richard J. Schrot, MD,
- Kirit T. Patel, MD and
- Philip Foulis, MD, MPH
Abstract
IN BRIEF
The accurate measurement of glucose is extremely important in the diagnosis of diabetes and pre-diabetes, where the laboratory values are crucial; in the management of diabetes, where glucose meter values are crucial; and in attainment of goals in diabetes, where hemoglobin A1c measurement is crucial. This article reviews pitfalls that may interfere with accuracy of glucose measurement in each of these three areas and how this inaccuracy may be evaluated and managed in the primary care setting. Three case presentations of disparity are discussed.
Footnotes
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Richard J. Schrot, MD, is an associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine, and Philip Foulis, MD, MPH, is an associate professor of pathology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine in Tampa. Kirit T. Patel, MD, is medical director of Quest Diagnostics Inc., in Tampa, Fla.
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Note of disclosure: Dr. Patel is employed by a national laboratory that performs medical testing, including blood glucose and A1C measurements.
- American Diabetes Association
