Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)
HbA1c was originally introduced as a marker of diabetes severity but in 2011, WHO redesignated the diagnostic criteria for diabetes mellitus. The diagnosis is now based on HbA1c > 48 mmol/mol. If an initial test is greater than 48 mmol/mol, then a repeat sample should be taken within a fortnight to confirm. It should be noted that glucose should still be used to diagnose diabetes mellitus in: 1. ALL symptomatic children and young people. 2. where symptoms suggest type 1 diabetes (any age). 3. where there is a short duration of diabetes symptoms. 4. in any patient who is acutely ill. Please note that HbA1c will be invalid soon after transfusions and may give misleading results in patients with haemoglobinopathies and in patients with iron deficiency anaemia. Note HbA1c is reported in IFCC (mmol/mol) units.
| Tube | 03 (EB) - EDTA Blood |
|---|---|
| ID | Tests&Tubes0062 |
| Additional Information | Glucose attatchment to Hb has been used to monitor glycaemic control in the diabetic. Much of the heterogeneity of adult Hb is the result of glycation. Normal Hb is designated as HbA and is made up of 2 alpha and 2 beta protein chains |
| Turn Around | A&E: N/A Day Case: N/A In-Patient: 48 Hours Out-Patient: 48 Hours GP: 48 Hours |
| Send to | Blood Sciences LGI |
| Contact | For further details please contact Leeds Pathology customer services: leedsth-tr.pathologycustomerservice@nhs.net. |
| Collection Con | A separate EDTA blood sample is required if FBC, PTH, PV or ESR is also requested. Instructions for Lab Staff: Standard lab processing- No special requirements Minimum volume 1ml |
| Sample REQ | Blood |
| Ref. Range Notes | Blood Sciences Refernce ranges available through the useful information and links page: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/a-z-of-services/pathology/blood-sciences/useful-information-and-links/ |
| Units | IFCC mmol/mol |
| Telepath | HBA12L |
| ICE Codes | LHBA1 |
