Ask An Expert: Insulin Assay Test
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
Ask An Expert: Insulin Assay Test
Question:
What is an insulin assay test?
Answer:
It is possible for you to be screened for insulin resistance (the problem that can lead to type 2 diabetes) by checking your body's response to a sugar load. This test is called the oral glucose tolerance test. For this test, you have your blood drawn shortly after consuming a sugary drink, and the glucose level is measured. High levels show that you don't process sugar efficiently.
Some doctors measure insulin levels along with glucose during an oral glucose tolerance test, naming their test the insulin assay test. They interpret high insulin levels as an additional sign that your body is resistant to insulin. This sounds like a reasonable idea, but it is not a recommended test. Experts have not agreed on acceptable cut-offs for what is normal and what is abnormal for blood insulin levels after a sugar load. Most doctors rely on the glucose levels (not insulin levels) when they screen for diabetes.
Mary Pickett, M.D., is a lecturer for Harvard Medical School and an assistant professor of medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, OR. At OHSU, she practices general internal medicine and teaches medical residents and students.
Print This
| Last updated: | January 24, 2007 |
|---|
Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
