Hemoglobin glycation index and triglyceride-glucose index are related to diabetic nephropathy

Abstract

Objective: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a significant complication of diabetes. Despite strict management of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), DN may progress to end-stage renal disease. HbA1c, the best biomarker for glycemic management, may differ in similar FPG. Hemoglobin glycation index (HGI) = HbA1c as determined minus HbA1c as predicted. The triglyceride-glucose index (TGI) is found to detect insulin resistance and correlates with DN. The aim of this study is to see the association of TGI and HGI with diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes patients. Method: 234 patients with type 2 diabetes were analyzed retrospectively. Results: 87 (37.2%) of 234 patients were male, and the mean age was 57.2 ± 11.1 years. 76 of the patients had DN. HGI and TGI were significantly higher in the DN group (2.59 ± 1.7 vs. 1.18 ± 0.34; p = 0.00 and 9.9 ± 0.7 vs. 9.7 ± 0.7; p = 0.024). In logistic regression analysis, microalbuminuria was associated with TGI (OR = 3.35, 95% CI, 1.778- 6.32, p = 0.01) and HGI (OR = 2.579, 95% CI, 1.89-3.516, p = 0.00). Conclusions: In conclusion, TGI and HGI were independently associated with diabetic nephropathy. These markers may be useful in DN, especially in anemic individuals, since anemia might affect HbA1c levels.