Glucose Tolerance Post-Polycose Test
2,800 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
GTT Gestational
Purpose
The Glucose Tolerance Post-Polycose Test is a blood test used to measure how the body processes glucose after the consumption of a glucose-rich drink (polycose). It is primarily used to screen and diagnose gestational diabetes in pregnant women.
This test is important because gestational diabetes can lead to complications such as high birth weight, preterm labor, and increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both mother and baby. Early detection allows for timely management through diet, exercise, or medication to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Other tests commonly performed alongside it include, Fasting Blood Glucose Test, Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin), and Random Blood Sugar (RBS) Test.
Patient Preparation
The patient should eat a diet that includes at least 150 grams of carbohydrates daily for 3 days before testing and fast for at least eight hours before the test. The patient should discontinue any medication that will interfere with glucose metabolism three days before the test.
Samples
1ml with a minimum volume of 0.5ml of serum or plasma collected in gel barrier tubes or grey top tubes. A blood sample is drawn before glucose administration, 75g of glucose is administered, and blood is drawn after two hours. Serum or plasma is then separated from cells within 45 minutes of sample collection. Store the sample at room temperature.
Reference Range
Fasting 65-91mg/dl, one hour 65-79mg/dl, two hours 65-52 mg/dl
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
The Glucose Tolerance Post-Polycose Test primarily helps detect gestational diabetes, a form of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Some possible outcomes of the test include;
Normal Result:
Indicates that your body is properly processing glucose, and there is no evidence of gestational diabetes.
Elevated Glucose Levels:
Suggest impaired glucose tolerance or gestational diabetes. Further confirmatory testing, such as the full Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT), may be required.
Borderline Result:
May indicate a risk of developing gestational diabetes later in the pregnancy, and doctors may recommend repeat testing or closer monitoring.
Early detection allows for interventions that help manage blood sugar levels and reduce risks to both mother and baby. For more information on GTT testing, read this study.