HbA1c is not always reliable in estimating glycaemic control

Abstract

Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) is considered as a cornerstone for assessing long-term glycaemic control. Several studies have established a strong correlation between HbA1c and diabetic comorbidities. However, in certain conditions it can lead to a false interpretation of diabetes control which may result in serious errors in patient management. It is essential clinicians are aware of the conditions that can affect glycated haemoglobin and use alternative methods of glycaemic control if there is a discrepancy between blood glucose readings and HbA1c. We report a case of a falsely low HbA1c which led to a wrong interpretation of glycaemic control resulting in a major comorbidity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons.