Glucose Tolerance Test
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A glucose tolerance test (GTT) is an important diagnostic tool used to assess how well your body processes sugar (glucose), playing a crucial role in diagnosing diabetes and other related health conditions. This test involves measuring your body’s response to sugar. Initially, a fasting blood sugar level is taken after you’ve fasted overnight. Then, you’re given a sweet liquid containing a specific amount of glucose, and subsequent blood sugar tests are conducted at intervals to track how your body deals with the sugar influx. The results of a GTT can reveal different conditions: if your blood sugar levels rise and then quickly return to normal, you likely have a healthy glucose metabolism. However, if your blood sugar levels rise higher than normal and take a longer time to come back down, it may indicate a pre-diabetic condition or gestational diabetes (in pregnant women). GTT is especially important for monitoring pregnant women's health, as gestational diabetes can pose risks to both the mother and baby. It's a simple yet effective test that provides invaluable insights into your body's metabolic health, guiding both diagnosis and treatment strategies for conditions related to impaired glucose handling.
Interpreting the results of a glucose tolerance test (GTT) requires an understanding of the blood sugar level benchmarks. Typically, blood sugar levels are measured at fasting, and then at intervals of 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, and sometimes 3 hours after consuming the glucose drink. Normal fasting blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL. If your fasting level is between 100 to 125 mg/dL, it indicates a pre-diabetic condition, known as impaired fasting glucose. A fasting level of 126 mg/dL or higher on two separate tests suggests diabetes. Post-glucose consumption, a normal blood sugar level should return to less than 140 mg/dL within 2 hours. Levels between 140 and 199 mg/dL after 2 hours indicate pre-diabetes, known as impaired glucose tolerance. A level of 200 mg/dL or higher at the 2-hour point suggests diabetes. It's important to note that these ranges can vary slightly depending on the lab and the specific test used. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss the results with a healthcare provider, who can interpret them in the context of your overall health and medical history.
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Biomarkers included in this panel:
2 Hour Specimen
The 2-hour blood sugar level in a glucose tolerance test (GTT) is a critical marker for assessing glucose metabolism and diagnosing conditions like diabetes and pre-diabetes. This test is a cornerstone in diabetes management and is especially vital d
Learn moreFasting Specimen
The fasting specimen in a Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) is a critical component in diagnosing and managing diabetes and other glucose-related disorders. This initial blood sample is taken after an individual has fasted for at least 8 to 12 hours, ensu
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