Glikált

Glikált, also known as glycated albumin or glycated serum protein, refers to a form of albumin—a protein in blood—covalently bound to glucose. This process, known as glycation, occurs when glucose molecules attach to proteins through a non-enzymatic reaction, forming advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Glikált levels are commonly used as a biomarker to assess short-term blood glucose control, typically over the past two to three weeks, as albumin has a shorter half-life compared to hemoglobin in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c).

The measurement of glikált is particularly useful in monitoring patients with diabetes or those at risk of hyperglycemia, as it provides a more immediate reflection of blood sugar levels than HbA1c. Unlike HbA1c, which reflects average glucose levels over several months, glikált can detect rapid fluctuations in blood sugar, making it valuable in clinical settings where short-term glycemic control is critical. However, its use is less common than HbA1c due to higher variability and the need for specialized testing.

Elevated glikált levels may indicate poor glycemic management and are associated with complications such as diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease. While glikált testing is not yet widely standardized, it remains an emerging tool in diabetes care, particularly in research and specialized clinical settings. Its interpretation should be combined with other diagnostic markers, such as HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose, to provide a comprehensive assessment of metabolic health.