PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Blood Sugar
Explanation
The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) is a medical test used to measure how well the body can process a large amount of sugar. It primarily checks the blood sugar (glucose) levels. This test is highly effective in diagnosing diabetes, insulin resistance, and impaired glucose tolerance. It is especially used as the gold standard test to detect gestational diabetes in pregnant women.
Key Points
- > OGTT stands for Oral Glucose Tolerance Test.
- > It is a key diagnostic test for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes.
- > The patient drinks a sugary liquid, and blood sugar levels are tested before and after.
- > It is universally used to screen pregnant women for gestational diabetes.
- > Insulin, a hormone secreted by the pancreas, regulates blood sugar levels.
- > Deficiency of insulin causes Diabetes Mellitus.
- > Blood pressure is measured using a device called a Sphygmomanometer.
Additional Information
Important Blood and Health Tests
| Test Name | What it Measures | Associated Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) | Basal glucose levels after fasting | Insulin hormone |
| Oral Glucose Tolerance (OGTT) | Body's response to a sugar load | Insulin resistance |
| Lipid Profile Test | Cholesterol, Triglycerides | Cardiovascular risk |
| Sphygmomanometry | Blood Pressure | Sphygmomanometer |
Memory Tips
- Glucose = Sugar: The word 'Glucose' in the test name is the scientific term for 'Sugar'. Hence, the test measures Blood Sugar.