HbA1c is produced by the binding of glucose to hemoglobin in the red blood cells (RBC). The RBC membrane is
completely permeable to glucose. The HbA1c formed is directly proportional to the average blood glucose that the RBC’s have been exposed to during the 120-day average life span of the cells. Although this test is usually used to monitor the long-term blood glucose level of type 1 diabetics, it partially reflects the average glycemic index of the foods consumed by an individual. An intake of higher glycemic foods may raise the HbA1c. This would stimulate more insulin. High insulin levels are associated with elevated CRP levels, a known marker for inflammation.
- CPT CODE:
- 83036
- COLLECTION CONTAINER:
- EDTA tube. Collection tube must be filled to full draw capacity to insure correct blood anticoagulant ratio of specimens.
- COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS:
- LHEMA1C-Hemoglobin-(Hgb)-A1c.pdf
- STATE & SHIPPING RESTRICTIONS:
- We cannot ship lab kits to NY, AK, HI, or international
- MINIMUM VOLUME:
- same
- PATIENT PREP:
- None
- PROCESS TIME:
- 5 to 7 business days
- REJECTION CAUSES:
- Clotted Specimen
- SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Monday through Thursday collections only. Specimen must be shipped same day as collection.
- SPECIMEN VOLUME:
- 6 ml EDTA whole blood
- TRANSPORT CONTAINER:
- Send entire tube. NOTE tube needs to be wrapped properly to prevent breakage during transportation.
- TRANSPORT INSTRUCTIONS:
- Store specimens at room temperature or refrigerate. DO NOT FREEZE! NOTE: tube needs to be wrapped properly to prevent breakage during transportation. Specimen must be received by no later than noon the next day following collection.