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Introduction of IFCC reference method for calibration of HbA: implications for clinical care

S Manley1, W G John, S Marshall

  • 1Clinical Biochemistry, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK. susan.manley@uhb.nhs.uk

Diabetic Medicine : a Journal of the British Diabetic Association
|June 24, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) monitoring is crucial for diabetes management. In the UK, reporting of DCCT-aligned HbA1c will continue despite the new IFCC reference method to ensure consistent patient care.

Area of Science:

  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Diabetology
  • Laboratory Medicine

Background:

  • Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is essential for monitoring glycemic control and diabetes complication risks.
  • UK guidelines mandate Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT)-aligned HbA1c measurements for comparability.
  • The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) reference method will be introduced in Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To inform healthcare professionals about the upcoming IFCC reference method for HbA1c.
  • To clarify the continued use of DCCT-aligned HbA1c reporting in the UK.
  • To ensure standardized HbA1c reporting for optimal diabetes patient care in the UK.

Main Methods:

  • Discussion and decision-making among UK diabetes care professionals.
  • Establishment of the UK HbA1c Standardization Committee.
  • Monitoring of international HbA1c reporting practices.

Main Results:

  • The IFCC reference method will introduce a lower reference range compared to DCCT.
  • Despite the IFCC method, the UK will continue reporting DCCT-aligned HbA1c from December 2003.
  • Laboratories are urged to transition to DCCT-aligned reporting promptly.

Conclusions:

  • Continued reporting of DCCT-aligned HbA1c is vital for UK diabetes care continuity.
  • Preventing fragmentation in HbA1c reporting is a key objective.
  • The UK HbA1c Standardization Committee will oversee reporting practices.

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