Examining diagnostic value of the fasting plasma glucose in screening gestational diabetes

Abstract

Background: Many different tests have been introduced for screening gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The Objectives of this study were to determine both the diagnostic value of fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and the suitable cut-off point of plasma glucose with the best sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods: This cross-sectional study was done on 242 women in Karaj-Iran who had at least one risk factor for GDM. Having conducted 50 gram glucose challenge test (GCT), the diagnostic values of FPG were determined by receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). Then the level of plasma glucose, with the highest sensitivity and specificity rate, were determined for the diagnosis of GDM. Results: Based on the results of ROC curve, FPG with cut-off point ?91 mg/dl revealed 63.89% and 76.56% sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing GDM, respectively. Conclusion: It is recommended to use FPG as a suitable screening test for GDM with acceptable specificity and sensitivity.