Glycated Haemoglobin
 (Biochemistry)
Investigation : Glycated Haemoglobin
Specimen type : EDTA
Spec container : 4ml EDTA (LAVENDER) 
Volume required : 4 ml
Reference range : see table
Turnaround : <72 hours

HbA1c Measurement in the diagnosis of Diabetes mellitus:

In 2011 the WHO Consultation concluded that HbA1c can be used as a diagnostic test for diabetes, provided that stringent quality assurance tests are in place and assays are standardised to criteria aligned to the international reference values, and there are no conditions present which preclude its accurate measurement (see additional information).

An HbA1c of 48mmol/mol (6.5% DCCT aligned result) is recommended as the cut point for diagnosing diabetes.

A value less than 48mmol/mol does not exclude diabetes diagnosed using glucose tests. The expert group concluded that there is currently insufficient evidence to make any formal recommendation on the interpretation of HbA1c levels below 48mmol/mol.

Limits to Aid Interpretation of HbA1c Values:

Hb A1c (mmol/mol)
IFCC aligned
<42
Non diabetic
42-47
Impaired glucose regulation/increased risk of diabetes mellitus
≥48
Consistent with diabetes mellitus/impaired glucose regulation


Guidelines for target HbA1c in diagnosed diabetes mellitus:

Hb A1c (mmol/mol)
IFCC aligned
Interpretation
<42
Non diabetic
48 - 59
Target control
>59
Poor control

Click here for 'Mersey Adult Impaired Glucose Regulation Guidelines’.

Click here for 'Use of Glycated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) in the Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus Guidelines’.

Additional information on glycated haemoglobin and its clinical use can be found here: glycated haemoglobin.



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