HBA1c Glycated Hemoglobin with eAG - HPLC
Also Known As
Test Parameters Included
- HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin): This measures the fraction of hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it. The higher the blood sugar has been over the last 90 days, the higher the HbA1c percentage will be. This parameter is unaffected by short-term changes like a recent meal or a workout.
- eAG (Estimated Average Glucose): The eAG is a calculated value derived from the HbA1c result. It translates the percentage into mg/dL (the same units used by home glucometers). This helps patients better understand how their A1c relates to their daily sugar readings.
Department
Methodology
Sample Required
Preparation
* Medications and Supplements: Please inform your doctor and the lab about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any supplements you are taking.
* Biotin (Vitamin B7) supplements can interfere with certain HbA1c assays, potentially leading to inaccurate results. While HPLC is generally less affected than some other methods, it's safest to inform your doctor about biotin use, who may advise you to temporarily stop it for at least 72 hours before the test. Do not stop any prescribed medication without consulting your doctor.
Schedule Report
12 Hours
Emergency Report
Yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is HbA1c better than a daily sugar test?
Daily tests show sugar right now. HbA1c shows the "big picture" over 3 months, preventing you from being misled by a single good or bad day.
Do I need to fast for an HbA1c test?
No. Since it measures a 3-month average, a meal you just ate will not change the result.
How often should I get tested?
If you are healthy, once a year. If you have diabetes and are meeting goals, twice a year. If you are changing treatments, every 3 months.
What is the "Gold Standard" HPLC method?
It is a highly precise laboratory technique that is much more accurate than the simple chemical tests used by some smaller labs.
Can I have a normal fasting sugar but a high HbA1c?
Yes. This often happens if your sugar spikes significantly after meals (postprandial) even if your morning levels look good.
What is eAG?
It stands for Estimated Average Glucose. It makes your HbA1c percentage easier to understand by turning it into a mg/dL number.
Why does my anemia affect the test?
HbA1c relies on red blood cells. If you have fewer cells or if they live shorter/longer than average, the result may be falsely high or low.
Does exercise lower HbA1c?
Yes, consistent exercise over 2-3 months will improve your body's sugar management and lower your HbA1c.
Can I take the test if I have a cold or fever?
Yes, short-term illness usually doesn't significantly impact the 3-month average.
What does a 7% HbA1c mean?
It corresponds to an average blood sugar (eAG) of roughly 154 mg/dL.
Can pregnancy affect HbA1c?
Yes, because red blood cell turnover changes during pregnancy. Doctors often prefer GTT (Glucose Tolerance Tests) for pregnant women.
Is HbA1c used for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes?
Yes, it is used for both, though it is the primary diagnostic tool for Type 2.
Can I drink water before the test?
Yes, water consumption has no effect on the result.
Does vitamin C affect the test?
Very high doses of Vitamin C or E can sometimes interfere with the accuracy of certain HbA1c assays.
How long does the report take?
At Dr. Patho, we provide your result within 6 hours using our automated HPLC systems.
Test Description
Test Code
G09
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