HbA1c
Hemoglobin A1c, a blood test measuring average glucose levels over 2-3 months, used to diagnose and monitor diabetes in children.
Full Definition
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) is a form of hemoglobin that is covalently bound to glucose, providing an integrated measure of glycemic control over the preceding 8-12 weeks. In pediatric endocrinology, HbA1c serves as the gold standard for monitoring long-term glucose control in children with diabetes and is increasingly used for diabetes diagnosis. An HbA1c level of 6.5% or higher indicates diabetes, while levels between 5.7% and 6.4% suggest prediabetes. The test is particularly valuable in pediatric patients because it does not require fasting and reflects glucose control over time rather than at a single point.
Usage
Usage note: Report as percentage; some labs may use mmol/mol units internationally.
In Context
- "The patient's HbA1c improved from 9.2% to 7.1% after intensive diabetes education." — Follow-up visit note
- "An HbA1c of 6.8% confirmed the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in this adolescent." — Diagnostic laboratory report