HbA1c interpretation pitfalls (pregnancy, haemolysis, CKD)
Core concept
- HbA1c = non-enzymatic glycation of the N-terminal valine of the beta chain, proportional to mean glucose over the RBC lifespan
- Reflects ~2-3 months, weighted to the recent past: ~50% from the last 30 days, ~25% from days 30-60
- -> Anything that changes RED CELL SURVIVAL, or interferes with the ASSAY, invalidates the result
- Shortened RBC survival -> falsely LOW HbA1c (less time to glycate)
- Prolonged RBC survival -> falsely HIGH HbA1c
3 more sections, plus exam facts
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