This test is primarily used to diagnose diabetes in children and adults who are not pregnant. For pregnant women, a different test is recommended. To get accurate results, patients need to fast overnight and then consume a 75g glucose solution. The amount of glucose for children is adjusted based on their ideal body weight. Diabetes may be diagnosed if the fasting glucose level is equal to or greater than 126 mg/dL, or if the glucose level two hours after consuming the glucose solution is equal to or greater than 200 mg/dL.
What patients is this test right for?
This test is suitable for individuals who are being evaluated for diabetes, including children and non-pregnant adults. Pregnant women are advised to take a different version of the glucose tolerance test.