Glucose, Fasting
CPT Code(s):
82947
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
8 hours
Refrigerated:
72 hours
Frozen:
30 days
Clinical Significance
The Glucose, Fasting test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in assessing blood sugar levels after a period of fasting. It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor diabetes mellitus and assess the body's ability to regulate glucose levels in the fasting state.
The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Glucose, Fasting test include:
1. Diabetes Diagnosis: The test is an important component in diagnosing diabetes mellitus. It measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast to evaluate fasting glucose levels. Elevated fasting glucose levels may indicate impaired fasting glucose (pre-diabetes) or diabetes. The test is used in conjunction with other diagnostic criteria to establish a diagnosis and determine appropriate management strategies.
2. Diabetes Management: For individuals already diagnosed with diabetes, the Glucose, Fasting test plays a crucial role in monitoring blood glucose control. It helps assess the effectiveness of diabetes treatment, such as lifestyle modifications, oral medications, or insulin therapy. Regular monitoring of fasting glucose levels allows individuals and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about treatment adjustments and interventions to achieve target glucose levels.
3. Assessment of Glucose Regulation: The Glucose, Fasting test provides insight into the body's ability to regulate glucose levels during periods of fasting. Abnormal fasting glucose levels can indicate underlying insulin resistance or impaired insulin production. This information helps guide further diagnostic investigations and treatment plans for conditions related to glucose metabolism disorders.
4. Risk Assessment: The Glucose, Fasting test helps identify individuals at risk for developing diabetes or related complications. Elevated fasting glucose levels, even if they do not meet the diagnostic criteria for diabetes, can indicate an increased risk for future diabetes development. This knowledge allows healthcare providers to implement preventive strategies, such as lifestyle modifications, to delay or prevent the onset of diabetes and its associated complications.
5. Evaluation of Other Medical Conditions: The Glucose, Fasting test is also used in the evaluation of other medical conditions, such as pancreatic disorders, hormonal imbalances, and certain liver or kidney diseases. Abnormal fasting glucose levels can provide valuable insights into these conditions and guide further diagnostic investigations and treatment plans.
It is important to note that the interpretation of Glucose, Fasting test results requires considering the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and other factors. Additionally, guidelines and target ranges may vary depending on factors such as age, pregnancy status, and the presence of underlying medical conditions.
In summary, the Glucose, Fasting test has specific clinical significance in diagnosing and monitoring diabetes mellitus, assessing glucose regulation during fasting, risk assessment for future diabetes, evaluating other medical conditions, and optimizing patient care outcomes related to glucose metabolism. By measuring fasting glucose levels, this test provides valuable information for clinical decision-making, diabetes management, and improving patient health outcomes.