What are the other Names for this Test? (Equivalent Terms)

• Glycated Albumin Test
• Glycated Serum Protein (GSP) Test
• GSP (Glycated Serum Protein) Test

What is Fructosamine Test? (Background Information)

• Fructosamine is a glycated serum protein - a substance formed by the combination of protein and glucose in blood. Greater the amount of blood glucose, greater is the concentration of fructosamine. Hence, the blood fructosamine levels mirror the amount of glucose, which is present
• Glycation mainly involves albumin, the principal blood protein. Other serum proteins may also combine with glucose. These serum proteins have a lifespan of 2-3 weeks. Hence, measuring the fructosamine level gives an idea of the blood glucose level, over the past 2-3 weeks. This is useful in estimating the blood sugar trends in diabetic individuals, over the said time period

What are the Clinical Indications for performing the Fructosamine Test?

Fructosamine Test is used to monitor blood sugar levels in diabetics, especially in situations, where an A1C measurement cannot be made, or is not preferred. Some indications to perform the test include:

• To find out if a medication or diet change has been effective in lowering blood glucose levels, after a few weeks of initiation (Hb A1C levels reflect changes over a span of months and not weeks). This is particularly useful in pregnant women
• Individuals, who have hemolytic anemia  - in whom the RBC life span is shortened and Hb A1C levels lose reliability
• In individuals with abnormal hemoglobin

How is the Specimen Collected for Fructosamine Test?

Sample required: Blood

Process: Blood sample is drawn through a needle inserted into the vein (arm), or obtained through finger prick.

Preparation required: None

What is the Significance of the Fructosamine Test Result?

• The normal values of fructosamine, called the reference range for fructosamine, may vary slightly from lab to lab. Hence, most lab reports come with a reference range, which is used in that particular centre. One such reference range, in wide use, is 200-285 µg/L (micrograms per liter)
• Elevated fructosamine levels indicate increased blood glucose over the past 2-3 weeks. Monitoring blood glucose level, over time, helps in estimating the effectiveness of blood sugar control

The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results, based on the overall clinical scenario.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information:

Fructosamine levels may be interfered by conditions, such as hyperthyroidism and increased levels of vitamin C.

Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider, the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.