Introduction to HbA1C

What is HbA1C?

• A marker for glucose intolerance

• A glycated hemoglobin

• A test in diagnostic laboratory

• A type of blood

Answer explanation

HbA1C is known as glycated hemoglobin where glucose binds to our hemoglobin. The accumulation of glucose in our blood can be measured by the higher HbA1C level in our body.

What is the normal range of HbA1C?

• Between 3% to 6% according to respective laboratory

• Between 4.5% to 6.5% according to respective laboratory

• Between 4% to 6% according to respective laboratory

• Between 4% to 7% according to respective laboratory

Answer explanation

Normal Range was varies according to the method used by respective laboratory and the age of patient itself.

Which of the machine below used in JPMD, HPKK UKM

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Answer explanation

This Sebia Minicap FLex Piercing Machine was used in our lab to detect HbA1C value in whole blood using Capillary Electrophoresis method.

What is the advantage of using Capillary Electrophoresis method in detection of HbA1C level?

• It reduce the band-broadening seen in the peak generated

• It a well established method

• It does not affect by small variations in pH

• It is highly reproducible

Answer explanation

Capillary Electrophoresis method have high separation efficiency thus reducing the band-broadening seen in the peaks generated.

From the picture, which colour of the graph represent atypical profile?

• Blue

• Purple

• Green

• Orange

Answer explanation

The result with atypical profile should be discussed with Medical Officer as it show the presence of abnormal hemoglobin in those particular patient.

In the presence of hemoglobin variant, what is the other parameter suggest to be used instead of HbA1C?

• Glycated Albumin

• Hb Analysis

• Fructosamine

• Cholestrol

Answer explanation

Fructosamine and Glycated Albumin are the other assay which were recommended for lab analysis and management of diabetes mellitus and it does not affected with the hemoglobin variant as in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C).

Which type of method below used in JPMD HPKK for detection of HbA1C level?

• High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

• Automated Boronate Affinity Assay

• Ion Selective Electrode

• Capillary Electrophoresis

Answer explanation

Our Minicap Flex Piercing Machine used Capillary Electrophoresis in detection of HbA1C Level in whole blood sample.

What is the limitation of HbA1C Level of detection test?

• Lower biological variability than fasting blood glucose

• Reflects only high mean exposure to glucose

• The level of detection affected by erythrocyte turnover rates

• Assay was costly and poor standardization