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Saturday, April 19, 2008

ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TESTS

The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) measures the body's ability to metabolize glucose. This test is used to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes and to determine gestational diabetes in pregnant women.

Patient Preparation:

* Regular diet containing least 150 to 200 grams of carbohydrate per day is
observed for 3 days prior to the test.

* Medications should be referred to the doctor whether to stop or continue taking
them.

* Alcohol and cigarettes are not allowed at least 8 hours before blood collection.

* Strenuous exercise also is to be avoided at least 8 hours before blood collection.

* No unnecessary activities ( doing errands, manual labor) should be done during the
duration of the test.

* The patient is allowed water.

* If the fasting blood sugar is between 100-130 mg/dL, then OGTT is recommended.
Ranges higher than this, FBS is recommended.

* The patient should be ambulatory.

* The test should be performed in a hospital where a resident doctor can respond to
any emergencies.

* For polycystic ovary syndrome, a Glucose tolerance test screening is usually
performed at age 30 and above.

* Urine and fasting blood specimens should be tested first, before proceeding with
the test.

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