Is A1C Test Result Of 6.1 Normal?

Posted on Thu, 12 Oct 2017

Question: I have Gilbert's Syndrome. Articles I have been reading indicate the A1C test is unreliable for a patient like me and gives falsely higher readings. Would you confirm that this is true? For 6 years now, every A1C test has given me a reading of 6.1. If this is falsely higher, then what is my true A1C number?

Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, please see the detailed answer below

Detailed Answer:
Dear Sir, I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns

Unfortunately, recent reports have established a relationship between Gilbert's syndrome and increased hematocrit level and red blood cell volume and lifespan...

This leads to increased accumulation of sugar within the hemoglobin portion of the RBCs and increased level of HbA1C... It is not yet well established the exact increase of HbA1C test results, but it is estimated to on average 0.8%... This effect is cumulative and only affects hbA1c level without affecting the fasting or postprandial blood glucose levels...

On the other hand, elevated BUN leads to a toxic effect on the pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production leading to an actual decrease in insulin secretion and a subsequent increase in blood glucose levels ...

However, your BUN level is within normal range and is not expected to affect your HbA1C levels ...

I hope you find this helpful...

Feel free to ask further
Regards

Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee