Fructosamine

The fructosamine assay is useful in monitoring the degree of glycemia over short-to-intermediate time frames (1-3 weeks). A fructosamine concentration greater than the established normal range is an indication of prolonged hyperglycemia of 1-3 weeks or longer. The higher the fructosamine value, the poorer the degree of glycemic control.

Fructosamine if the compound that forms when glucose and protein combines. This combination is permanent, and prolonged exposure to glucose cause many proteins in organs to become glycated, leading to damage. An example of this is hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), also known as glycated hemoglobin. Glycated hemoglobin is hemoglobin with glucose attached to it. Hemoglobin only becomes glycated if there is a high amount of glucose in the blood. HbA1c and fructosamine can be used to evaluate the average amount of glucose in the blood over a certain time span. This blood test measures the amount of fructosamine in the blood and is used in the diagnosis of diabetes type 1 and 2, as well as for the monitoring of people on treatment for diabetes.

This blood test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Increased thirst and drinking fluids
• Increased urination
• Increased appetite
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing infections
• Monitoring blood glucose for people on on medication