The glucose tolerance test is used to diagnose diabetes, pre-diabetes, and gestational diabetes. It is also used in laboratory testing for acromegaly.
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The glucose tolerance test (GTT) measures the body's ability to use glucose, the carbohydrate that is the body's primary source of energy. It can detect abnormalities in how the body handles glucose after a meal, often before fasting blood glucose is measured.
The glucose tolerance test can diagnose disorders in blood glucose regulation. It is used in patients with fasting and postprandial glucose borderline values to set or exclude the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. It can also be used to test unexplained hypertriglyceridemia, neuropathy, impotence, kidney disease, retinopathy, and other pathological conditions that may be due to undiagnosed diabetes mellitus.
The glucose tolerance test investigates glycosuria without hyperglycemia (e.g., kidney glucosuria) and diagnoses gestational diabetes. Abnormal carbohydrate metabolism during pregnancy increases the risks of fetal abnormalities and perinatal mortality.
Abnormal glucose tolerance test results may be due to obesity in some individuals, Cushing's syndrome, pheochromocytoma, acromegaly, or excessive production of growth hormone, adrenal and thyroid hormones, and catecholamines.
There are several laboratory protocols to perform the sugar curve:
- 2-hour glucose tolerance test. Administration of 75 g of anhydrous glucose, measured at 0 'and 120'. WHO (World Health Organization) Protocol. It is mainly used for the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus
- 1-hour glucose tolerance test. Administration of 50 g of anhydrous glucose, measured at 0 'and 60'. ACOG (American College of Obstetricians-Gynecologists) Screen Protocol. It is used as an initial screening for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes
- 3-hour glucose tolerance test. Administration of 100 g of anhydrous glucose, measured at 0 ', 60', 120', and 180'. Protocol ACOG (American College of Obstetricians-Gynecologists). It is used as a diagnostic test for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes
- 2-hour glucose tolerance test. Administration of 75 g of anhydrous glucose, measured at 0 ', 60', and 120'. ADA Protocol (American Diabetic Association). It is used as an initial and diagnostic test for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most critical parameter for diagnosing and monitoring all pathological conditions. 70% and 80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased."
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be analyzed based on each case and family history, clinical findings, and other laboratory tests and information. Your physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon, we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and contact your doctor to ensure you receive the best possible medical care.
