Question

Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c)

1) Expected reference range?
2)What is acceptable for a diabetic child?
a) 4-6%; 7-8%
b) 6-8%; 8-9%
c) 8-10%; 10-12%
d) 10-12%; 6-7%

Answer 1

For non-diabetic individuals, HbA1c levels are typically less than 7%. For a diabetic child, the acceptable HbA1c range is 7-8%, with levels above 9% indicating poor control. Regular monitoring of HbA1c is essential for managing diabetes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The expected reference range for glycosylated hemoglobin, or HbA1c, in non-diabetic individuals is typically less than 7%. For diabetic patients, tight control of HbA1c is crucial, with goals to keep levels as close to the non-diabetic range as possible. The recommended acceptable HbA1c range for a diabetic child would be 7-8%. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option a) 4-6%; 7-8%.

HbA1c levels above 9% indicate poor control of diabetes, and levels exceeding 12% signify very poor control. It is essential for diabetics to regularly monitor their HbA1c, ideally every 3 to 6 months, to manage and prevent complications related to diabetes, such as issues affecting the eyes, kidneys, and nerves. A 1% change in HbA1c reflects a significant change in average blood glucose, indicating the importance of maintaining a level as close to normal as possible.