Fructosamine

The Fructosamine test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 weeks. It reflects glucose binding to serum proteins, primarily albumin. This test is especially useful for monitoring short-term changes in blood sugar, such as during pregnancy or after changes in diabetes treatment.

1. What Is Fructosamine?

• Fructosamine is formed when glucose binds to proteins in the blood, mainly albumin.

• The level of fructosamine reflects average blood sugar over a shorter period than the HbA1c test (which measures 2–3 months).

• It is especially helpful in situations where HbA1c may be unreliable or when rapid monitoring is needed.

2. Why Is the Fructosamine Test Performed?

This test is used to:

• Monitor blood glucose control in people with diabetes over the previous 2–3 weeks.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of changes in diabetes treatment (e.g., insulin adjustment).

• Monitor blood sugar during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).

• Provide an alternative to HbA1c in individuals with hemoglobin disorders or anemia.

3. Fructosamine Reference Range

• Normal range: 200 – 285 µmol/L

• Diabetic target range: May vary based on individual treatment goals (often up to 320 µmol/L)

• Values may vary depending on lab techniques and patient conditions.

4. How to Interpret Fructosamine Results

🔹 Elevated Fructosamine:

• Indicates poor short-term blood glucose control.

• May suggest the need for treatment adjustments in diabetes management.

🔹 Normal Fructosamine:

• Suggests good blood sugar control over the past few weeks.

• Often indicates that current treatment is effective.

5. What Can Affect Fructosamine Levels?

• Serum protein levels (especially albumin)

• Kidney or liver disease

• Thyroid dysfunction

• Recent changes in diabetes medication or diet

• Conditions causing protein loss or shortened protein lifespan

6. How Is the Test Performed?

• A blood sample is taken from a vein.

• No fasting is usually required unless directed by your healthcare provider.

7. When to See a Doctor

🚨 Contact your healthcare provider if you:

• Have diabetes and need close monitoring of treatment effects.

• Experience changes in symptoms of high or low blood sugar.

• Have conditions that interfere with HbA1c testing.

🔹 Key Takeaways

✅ Fructosamine reflects average blood glucose over 2–3 weeks.

✅ Useful for rapid monitoring of diabetes control or when HbA1c is unreliable.

✅ Helps guide short-term treatment adjustments for better glucose management.