The current scenario of the interference of anemia and red blood cells in the results of glycated hemoglobin: scope review

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the world, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Among the techniques used to measure blood glucose levels in patients with DM, the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test is the gold standard for long-term assessment. A single measurement of HbA1c may lead to incorrect diagnosis due to test interference, as in cases of anemia. In addition to anemia, changes in erythrocytes and hemoglobin levels can interfere with biomarker measurement, as HbA1c measurement is dependent on hemoglobin levels. Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify and summarize the main hematological changes that may interfere with HbA1c results. For this purpose, the Pubmed database was consulted between 2017 and 2022. The search returned 335 articles which, after screening, were reduced to 10, which allowed the analysis of the theme. The results revealed that changes in erythrocyte levels are capable of influencing HbA1c results through different mechanisms. Through the data presented in this review, it is expected to assist healthcare professionals in interpreting HbA1c results, minimizing possible harm that could be caused to patients.