Fasting oral glucose challenge test as a predictor of gestational diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Gestational diabetes greatly affects maternal and fetal morbidity. Its early detection can make possible prevention of adverse outcomes. There is great controversy, however, regarding the appropriate screening test to accurately predict its presence. The universal screening test used, the oral glucose challenge test (OGCT), is not exempt from this controversy. Should it be administered in the fasting or fed state? This paper shows that the sensitivity of OGCT administered in the fasting state is 96.6%, much higher than that administered in the fed state which is 60%.