Screening Test For Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Research Articles

Screening recommendations for gestational diabetes mellitus

As a result of extensive experiences in multiple centers and a review of the current literature, we conclude that a plasma glucose level obtained 1 hour after a 50 gm oral glucose challenge is the “best” gestational diabetes mellitus screening test. This universal screening is performed at least once during pregnancy. The screening threshold should be no higher than 140 mg/dl, or an unacceptable loss in sensitivity occurs. Universal screening for gestational diabetes mellitus is justified by morbidity reduction, cost, and protocol simplicity and ease. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1991;165:493-6.)

Fructosamine as a screening-test for gestational diabetes mellitus: a reappraisal

Fructosamine, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA Ic) and serum total proteins were measured in normal nondiabetic pregnant women (n = 170) at three stages of pregnancy (14–18, 24–28, and 32–40 weeks of gestation). No significant correlation was found between fructosamine and either HbA Ic or total plasma proteins. Only early in pregnancy (< 20 weeks of gestation) was a correlation found between fructosamine and fasting blood glucose (r = 0.40, P < 0.05). There was also no correlation between either tests (i.e. fructosamine and HbA Ic) and fetal birthweight. The value of fructosamine measurement in the detection of diabetes in pregnancy was further tested in a group of high-risk patients (n = 98) for developing carbohydrate intolerance. It is concluded that fructosamine has limited value as a screening test for gestational diabetes mellitus, particularly for the mild form of the glucose intolerance.