advertisement
E-mail Page
Print Format
Google - Traducir esta página a español.
Google - Traduza esta página ao português.
 

  Back to Ask the Diabetes Team Ask the Diabetes Team
Question:

From Denver, Colorado, USA:

With all the questions about the differences between whole blood glucose values and plasma values, why is it so difficult to get a chart with normal plasma values? Whenever someone asks about the subject, they seem to be given a conversion formula and not a chart with a range like I've always had with whole blood readings.

Answer:

Plasma glucose is about 15% higher than whole blood glucose. Labs have used plasma glucose for a long time: decades.

Meters used to use whole blood glucose; but now, every new meter introduced in the past 3-4 years is calibrated to plasma glucose. That way, the numbers are more like the lab. It's not perfect though. Remember your meter costs only a few dollars, not thousands of dollars like lab instruments.

Why are there no charts: beats me! One might argue, just use the old chart; the blood glucose control will be better. Actually I do tell my patients about the low end of the spectrum, the 50s and 60s, and then let them be a bit lower in the high range.

LD

DTQ-20000603190535
Original posting 3 Jul 2000
Posted to Blood Tests and Insulin Injections

  
advertisement


 
Not Helpful  1 2 3 4 5  Very Helpful                  E-mail Article E-mail Page     Printer Friendly format Print Format    
  Home Return to Top

Last Updated: Tuesday April 06, 2010 15:09:11
This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional.

US Flag This site is published by Children With Diabetes, Inc, which is responsible for its contents.
By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use, Legal Notice, Privacy Policy, and Safe Harbor Policy.
© Children with Diabetes, Inc. 1995-2013. Comments and Feedback.