There are currently 3 preferred testing methods for diagnosing types 1 and 2 diabetes.  A positive result in any 1 of the tests plus a confirmation test on a following day using one of the other two is typically required for a diagnosis.  Test number 1 is the most simple and preferred test among physicians today.

1)  Testing the plasma glucose value:  If the plasma glucose value exceeds 126 mg/dL after the patient has fasted for 8 hours (exceeding 140 mg/dL according to the National Diabetes Data Group-NDDG).

2)  Random (taken any time of day) glucose value of at least 126 mg/dL in addition to the presence of diabetes symptoms.

3)  OGTT (oral glucose tolerance test) showing a plasma glucose value of greater than 200 mg/dL after patient has consumed 75 grams of glucose dissolved in water at timed intervals within a 3 hour period.
 
 
 
 

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page by Jeff Klomp