Test Code 408(Includes glucose and insulin)
Test Details
Insulin Resistance
The standard measure of insulin resistance is the homeostasis model, based on both fasting insulin and fasting glucose level. Also called Homeostasis Model of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR).
Methodology
Insulin Resistance is calculated as:
Homeostasis Model of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) = [fasting insulin (uU/ml) X fasting glucose (mg/dl)] /401.85
Patient Preparation
Fasting is required
Preferred Specimen
Requires 2 Tubes
- Red & Yellow Top Tube
(CAT serum separator clot activator with gel) - Green Top Tube
(Lithium Heparin plasma separator tube with gel)
Alternate Specimen
None
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 3 days
Lab Values
Insulin Resistance
- Optimal: <2.0
- Borderline: 2.0 – 3.0
- Increased Risk: >3.0
Clinical Significance
Insulin Resistance
The presence of insulin resistance (value > 3.0) indicates a high risk of developing1:
- Coronary heart disease
- Stroke
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia
References:
- Haff ner S. Relationship of Metabolic Risk Factors and Development of Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes. Obesity. 2006;14(Suppl 3):121S-127S.
Treatment Options
Insulin Resistance
- Lifestyle modification
- Glucose stabilizing and/or insulin sensitizing medications
