Fructosamine

Fructosamine — is a compound formed as a result of a reaction between fructose and proteins, particularly with amino acids. This process, known as glycation, occurs in the body and can be used to assess blood glucose levels over a specific period of time.

Fructosamine is an important marker, especially for people with diabetes, as its level reflects the average glucose level over the past 2-3 weeks.

How is fructosamine formed?

Fructosamine is formed when glucose or fructose molecules bind to proteins in the blood. This process occurs as a result of a chemical reaction in which carbohydrates interact with the amino groups of proteins.

Unlike glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), which shows glucose levels over a longer period (usually 2-3 months), fructosamine provides a more short-term assessment of glycemic control.

Measuring fructosamine levels can be useful for:

• Assessing the effectiveness of diabetes treatment.
• Determining fluctuations in blood glucose levels.
• Identifying cases where HbA1c may be unreliable (e.g., in anemia or blood disorders).

Normal fructosamine values

Normal fructosamine levels vary by laboratory, but are generally considered to be as follows:

• Normal level: less than 285 μmol/L.
• Level indicating prediabetes: 285-320 μmol/L.
• Level indicating diabetes: more than 320 μmol/L.

Factors affecting fructosamine levels

Several factors can influence fructosamine levels in the blood, including:

• Changes in diet, especially carbohydrate intake.
• Kidney diseases that may affect protein levels in the blood.
• Conditions related to altered protein metabolism.

Conclusion

Fructosamine is an important indicator for monitoring blood glucose levels and managing diabetes. Its use can help doctors better understand a patient’s condition and tailor treatment. Understanding fructosamine and its significance can be beneficial for both doctors and patients striving for better health control.