What tests are commonly used to diagnose diabetes?

The fasting blood glucose test and HbA1c test are commonly used to diagnose diabetes due to their effectiveness in measuring blood sugar levels and assessing long-term glucose control. The fasting blood glucose test measures the level of glucose in the blood after an individual has not eaten for at least eight hours, helping to determine how well the body is managing blood sugar levels. An elevated glucose level indicates potential diabetes.

The HbA1c test, on the other hand, provides an average blood glucose level over the past two to three months by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin coated with glucose. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing diabetes as well as monitoring the management of the condition over time. Both tests are recommended by diabetes organizations and are part of standard protocols for diagnosing diabetes.

Other options listed involve tests that are not typically used for diagnosing diabetes. Tests like the complete blood count or metabolic panel focus on different aspects of health and do not specifically target blood glucose levels. Similarly, the oral glucose tolerance test can be used for diagnosing diabetes but is not as commonly used as the fasting blood glucose and HbA1c tests. The thyroid function test and serum electrolytes assess other bodily functions and conditions unrelated to diabetes.