Diagnosis of Diabetes: Essential Tests and Evaluations

Identifying diabetes requires a series of medical evaluations and tests. These assessments help determine whether a person has the condition and how advanced it may be. Below are the key diagnostic procedures used by healthcare professionals:

1. Standard Blood and Urine Tests

As part of a general health screening, a biochemical blood test and routine urinalysis are often performed. If the urine test shows the presence of glucose (indicated by a plus sign) or if blood sugar levels exceed 6.1 mmol/L, it is advisable to consult a specialist for further testing. These initial findings may suggest the need for more specific diabetes-related evaluations.

2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT)

If a person does not exhibit classic symptoms of diabetes such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, increased hunger, or unexplained weight loss, a glucose tolerance test may be necessary. This test involves fasting overnight, then consuming a solution containing 75 grams of glucose. Blood samples are taken before drinking the solution and again two hours afterward to measure how the body processes sugar.

Diagnostic Criteria

During the OGTT, if the fasting blood glucose level is 7.0 mmol/L or higher, and the blood glucose level two hours after consuming the glucose solution is 11.1 mmol/L or more, a diagnosis of diabetes is typically confirmed. These values indicate impaired glucose metabolism and are key indicators in diagnosing the disease.

3. Repeat Testing and HbA1c Evaluation

In cases where symptoms are absent or unclear, blood sugar levels must be measured at least twice on separate occasions to confirm a diabetes diagnosis. Additionally, monitoring glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels can provide valuable insight into long-term blood sugar control. While HbA1c is not used as a primary diagnostic tool, it is highly effective in assessing average blood glucose levels over the past few months.

Comprehensive Evaluation for Early Detection

When elevated blood sugar is detected for the first time, it's important to perform both an oral glucose tolerance test and an HbA1c test. A routine urinalysis should also be conducted to check for the presence of ketones, which can indicate diabetic complications. These combined assessments help determine not only the presence of diabetes but also its severity and potential impact on overall health.

In summary, diagnosing diabetes involves a combination of blood tests, urine analysis, and specialized evaluations. Early detection and proper diagnosis are crucial for effective management and prevention of long-term complications associated with the condition.