Test Name: Fructosamine – Serum

Clinical Significance:
Fructosamine is a glycated serum protein, mainly glycated albumin. The Fructosamine test reflects the mean plasma glucose concentration over the previous 2–3 weeks, making it a valuable tool for short-term glycemic monitoring. It is particularly useful in situations where HbA1c may be unreliable (e.g., hemoglobinopathies, hemolytic anemia, pregnancy, recent transfusions).

Reference Ranges (may vary by lab):

• Normal: 200 – 285 µmol/L

• Diabetes (poor control): >285 µmol/L

Indications:

• Monitoring short-term glycemic control

• Evaluation of therapy adjustments in diabetes

• Useful in conditions affecting HbA1c accuracy

• Gestational diabetes monitoring

Preparation:

• No fasting required.

• Blood sample taken at any time of the day.

Turnaround Time:

• Fast reporting – Results available within the same day (24 hours).

Test Name: FBS – Fasting Blood Sugar (Glucose Fasting)

Clinical Significance:
The fasting blood sugar test measures blood glucose after 8–10 hours of fasting. It is widely used for diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes mellitus. Persistent hyperglycemia indicates diabetes, while borderline results suggest impaired fasting glucose (pre-diabetes).

Reference Ranges (may vary by lab):

• Normal: 70 – 99 mg/dL

• Pre-diabetes (Impaired Fasting Glucose): 100 – 125 mg/dL

• Diabetes: ≥126 mg/dL (on two separate tests)

Indications:

• Screening for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

• Monitoring glycemic control in diabetic patients

• Evaluation of hypoglycemia

• Routine health check-up

Preparation:

• Patient should fast for at least 8–10 hours.

• Only water is allowed.

• Medications should be informed to the doctor/lab.