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HbA(1c)--an analyte of increasing importance
1DynaLIFE(DX), Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 5E2. trefor.higgins@dynalifedx.com
Clinical Biochemistry
|June 19, 2012
Summary
Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is the gold standard for diabetes monitoring. Advances in analytical methods and standardization have improved its accuracy, enabling broader applications in diagnosis and revealing influences of various factors.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Chemistry
- Endocrinology
- Laboratory Medicine
Background:
- Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) has been integral to diabetes management since 1976.
- Analytical methods for HbA1c have seen significant advancements, driven by initiatives like the National Glycohemoglobin Standardization Program (NGSP).
- Recent updates in HbA1c definition and calibrators offer potential for enhanced analytical precision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and formation of HbA1c assays.
- To discuss current analytical methodologies and their improvements.
- To examine factors influencing HbA1c analysis and its expanding clinical utility.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical data and scientific literature on HbA1c.
- Analysis of advancements in analytical techniques and standardization efforts.
- Discussion of demographic and clinical factors impacting HbA1c results.
Main Results:
- HbA1c is the established gold standard for assessing glycemic control in diabetes.
- Continuous improvements in analytical performance have been achieved through standardization.
- The scope of HbA1c testing has broadened to include diabetes screening and diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced analytical performance of HbA1c assays has highlighted the impact of various influencing factors.
- Ongoing standardization efforts are crucial for reliable HbA1c measurement.
- The expanded use of HbA1c necessitates a thorough understanding of its analytical and clinical context.
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