Fructosamine Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, Normal Range

Table of Content

Introduction to Fructosamine Test

The fructosamine test is a blood test that measures the average level of blood glucose over the past 2-3 weeks by evaluating the amount of fructosamine, a compound formed when glucose binds to proteins in the blood. The test monitors the blood sugar level in people with diabetes. 

It is beneficial for people with rapidly changing glucose levels during pregnancy or when managing gestational diabetes. It can also be useful when A1c results are unreliable, such as in patients with anaemia or hemoglobinopathies.

The Fructosamine test helps assess the effectiveness of changes in diabetes treatment or lifestyle adjustments within a few weeks, enabling quicker responses to treatment modifications.

People with diabetes who need close monitoring of blood glucose levels, pregnant women with gestational diabetes, and individuals whose A1c test may not give accurate results should consider the Fructosamine test. 

Your doctor may recommend the fructosamine test for anyone who requires frequent adjustments to their diabetes management plan or when there is a need to evaluate the effectiveness of recent changes in treatment. Regular testing helps in making timely and informed decisions about managing blood glucose levels and reduces the risk of complications related to poorly controlled diabetes. So, if you are looking for the Fructosamine test, choose Redcliffe Lab, as we provide 100% reports of correctness. 

Test details in brief

Purpose of the Fructosamine Test

The fructosamine test's primary purpose is to measure the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 weeks. Here is the purpose of the Fructosamine test- 

• Gestational Diabetes—It is useful for monitoring blood sugar levels in pregnant women, as glucose levels can change more quickly.
• Monitoring diabetes control helps track how well blood sugar levels have been managed.
• Evaluating treatment effectiveness: The test compares fructosamine levels over time, which will help doctors determine whether current diabetes treatments are working effectively.
• Making timely treatment adjustments—Based on the results, Healthcare providers can make necessary changes to medication, diet, or exercise plans.

What does the Fructosamine Test measure?

The Fructosamine test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 weeks by assessing fructosamine concentration in the blood. Fructosamine is a compound formed when glucose binds to proteins, primarily albumin, in the blood through glycation.

The fructosamine level in the blood reflects how much glucose has been present over the past few weeks. Higher fructosamine levels indicate higher average blood glucose levels during that period, while lower levels suggest better blood glucose control. 

Preparation for the Fructosamine Test

The Fructosamine test typically requires minimal preparation. However, here are some guidelines to ensure accurate results:

• No Fasting Required- You don't need to fast before the test. You can eat and drink normally. 
• Medication- Inform your healthcare provider about all your medications and supplements, as some might affect the test results.
• Inform Your Doctor- Let your healthcare provider know if you have any conditions that might affect the test, such as thyroid disease or kidney issues, as these can influence fructosamine levels.
• Hydration- Keep yourself hydrated to make the blood draw process smoother. 

The procedure of the Fructosamine Test

The Fructosamine blood test is a simple diagnostic test that involves the following steps- 

• The healthcare provider will first clean the arm area with an antiseptic solution. He will then tie a Tourniquet to make the vein more clearer. 
• Next, he will insert a sterile needle into the vein to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch or prick during this process. 
• After blood collection, the phlebotomist will remove the needle. He will then put a bandage over the puncture site to stop any bleeding.
• The healthcare professional will send the blood sample to the nearby lab for analysis to measure the fructosamine levels.

What do the Fructosamine Test reports indicate?

Fructosamine test reports provide insights into average blood glucose levels. The test results indicate whether your blood sugar levels have been well-controlled or if there are areas for improvement. 

• Fructosamine Normal Range 

The fructosamine normal levels range from 200 to 285 µmol/L in people without diabetes. 

• Fructosamine Higher Levels

The elevated fructosamine levels indicate higher average blood glucose levels over the past few weeks.

This means that the blood sugar levels are out of control and need medications and lifestyle adjustments.

For example, a level above 285 µmol/L indicates that your blood glucose levels are consistently high.

• Fructosamine Lower Levels

Lower fructosamine levels indicate lower average blood glucose levels, which may suggest good glucose control. However, if levels are too low, it could indicate hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which needs medical attention.

Discuss your health reports with your doctor. They might recommend adjustments to your treatment plan or additional tests.

Who should take the Fructosamine Test?

The fructosamine test is not widely used in diabetes care. For some patients, the HbA1c test will be inaccurate. Therefore, your doctor may advise you to take the fructosamine test. Here is who should take the Fructosamine Test-

• People with diabetes
• Pregnant women
• People having Anemia
• Recent blood loss
• People with RBC issues like hemolytic anaemia or sickle cell disease. 

What are the common symptoms related to this condition?

Here are some common signs of diabetes that people might notice in the initial stages-

•  Increased thirst (polydipsia) and dry mouth
•  Frequent urination
•  Fatigue
•  Blurred vision
•  Increased hunger
•  Unexplained weight loss
•  Slow-healing sores or cuts
•  Frequent infections
•  Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
•  Areas of darkened skin

If you experience these symptoms, consult a medical professional for guidance, diagnosis and proper treatment. 

When should I get the Fructosamine test?

You should consider getting a Fructosamine test in the following circumstances-

• Recent Changes in Diabetes Treatment- If you have made recent changes to your diabetes management plan—such as adjustments in medication, diet, or exercise- take a Fructosamine test to evaluate the effectiveness of these changes over the past 2-3 weeks.
• Unreliable A1c Results- If your Hemoglobin A1c test results need to be more accurate due to conditions like anaemia, haemoglobin variants, or other factors that affect red blood cells, then take the Fructosamine blood test to assess blood glucose control.
• Monitoring During Pregnancy—Pregnant women, particularly those with gestational diabetes, may need more frequent blood glucose monitoring. The fructosamine test can provide a more immediate and accurate reflection of blood sugar control, which is crucial during pregnancy. 
• Frequent Fluctuations in Blood Sugar—If your blood glucose levels fluctuate, your doctor might recommend the Fructosamine test, which more accurately reflects recent control, than the A1c test, which averages blood sugar over a longer period.
• Short-Term Glucose Monitoring Needs—The fructosamine test is appropriate if you need to monitor blood glucose levels over a short period, such as before or after surgery or during an acute illness. 

Are the Fructosamine test results accurate?

The fructosamine test generally provides accurate test results of blood glucose levels for the preceding 2 to 3 weeks. However, several health conditions can affect your fructosamine levels, including-

• Cirrhosis and other liver diseases
• Disorders of the intestines
• Plasma cell disorders, such as multiple myeloma
• Thyroid disease
• Kidney disorders.

Consult your doctor and inform them of your health issues when interpreting your fructosamine test results, as well as any other factors that could impact the accuracy of the test.

What is the Risk of the Fructosamine test?

Unlike other blood tests, fructosamine blood tests are normal with no or minimal risk. However, there are some common risk factors, including- 

• Excessive Bleeding
• Hematoma
• Risk of infection
• Multiple puncture sites
• Fainting

If you have any doubts about your fructosamine blood test, consult your doctor and ask your questions before taking the test.

Fructosamine Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The Fructosamine Test Cost at Redcliffe Labs is INR 520. You can book your test with our app or can call us to book your test. Our labs follow the highest quality protocols as per NABL & ISO guidelines. The team of experienced Doctors, MD Pathologists and technicians ensure the delivery of 100% correct reports. Redcliffe Labs is trusted by more than 50,000 + doctors across India. With every test report, we offer value benefits worth INR 999/- including Personalized diet plans, health progress reports and free report consultation. 

Fructosamine Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer Fructosamine Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Fructosamine Test 

The fructosamine test is an important test for monitoring short-term blood glucose levels. It is useful for people with diabetes who need to assess the effectiveness of recent treatment adjustments or lifestyle changes. Unlike the HbA1c test, which reflects long-term glucose control, fructosamine provides more immediate feedback, making it ideal for tracking rapid changes in blood sugar levels.

If you want to check your short-term glucose levels, take a fructosamine blood test with Redcliffe Labs. The professionals here provide a 100% correct report. You will also get good discounts and offers on diagnostic tests. 

The test is helpful for those who require close monitoring of their blood sugar, such as during pregnancy, after starting or modifying diabetes medications, or in situations where HbA1 test results are unreliable. 

Regular testing allows for timely treatment plan adjustments and helps prevent complications associated with poor glucose control.