Hemoglobin A1C

Analysis of glycohemoglobin (glycated hemoglobin) that is produced by non-enzymatic addition of glucose to amino groups in hemoglobin A (HbA) specifically at N-terminal valine residues of hemoglobin beta chains. Used both as an index of mean glycemia and as a measure of risk for the development of diabetes complications, such as nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy. This test is a good indicator of glycemic control in the preceding 2-3 months, as it reflects the 120-day lifespan of the red blood cell and is relatively unaffected by acute fluctuations in glucose levels.