How to do and interpret a cholesterol test

High cholesterol levels have no visible symptoms and are diagnosed solely by the results of a blood test for total cholesterol (TC) and fractions. How to determine cholesterol in the blood to fully assess the situation? Only by doing a blood test for fractions. Cholesterol (cholesterol) in the body is found in the form of fractions - triglycerides - which are of high density (high-density lipoproteins, or HDL) and low density (LDL, or “bad”, “harmful” cholesterol, although it can only be considered as such only conditionally).

The purpose of diagnosing cholesterol is to determine the level of its concentration in the blood, usually measured in [mmol/l] (less often - in [mg/dl]). A TC value of up to 5.3 – 5.4 mmol/l is considered normal (although much depends on age, gender and health status, not to mention heredity and the fact of pregnancy). Diagnosis of cholesterol in fractions also allows you to evaluate the concentration of LDL and HDL. The level of “good” (HDL) cholesterol is not standardized (it is believed that the higher the better), and LDL should ideally not exceed 3.9 mmol/l. An LDL concentration between 4 and 4.9 mmol/l can lead to the development of atherosclerosis (this value can also be considered a moderately elevated cholesterol level), and when its level is above 4.9 mmol/l, they already speak of a developed disease.

Express diagnosis of cholesterol is performed using specialized devices - biochemical blood analyzers - and, as a rule, takes no more than 1 minute. Such devices often simultaneously perform rapid diagnostics of cholesterol and glucose levels. Express diagnosis of cholesterol can be carried out both in medical institutions and at home. However, the cost of biochemical electronic analyzers is 5–6 thousand or more thousand rubles. A complete diagnosis of high cholesterol is possible only in laboratory conditions.

Indications for cholesterol testing:

Atherosclerosis and related diseases of the cardiovascular system
Liver and kidney diseases
Pancreatic diseases
Obesity
Endocrine pathology (myxedema, diabetes mellitus)
If close relatives have high cholesterol or have diseases associated with atherosclerosis
If you are over 39 years old and care about your health

Determining level increase by external signs

A persistent and long-term increase in serum cholesterol levels can be suspected even without using a home device. You can check your cholesterol at home based on the presence of external signs of its increase. These include: xanthomas and xanthelasmas (deposits of excess lipids under the skin of various areas of the body, as well as on tendons), the presence of a lipid edging around the iris.

External signs of high cholesterol

If it is not possible to measure cholesterol at home, the following symptoms may indicate its increase:

frequent burning pain behind the sternum,
crawling sensation in the distal parts of the limbs,
frequent dizziness,
cognitive function disorders,
the occurrence of vision problems.

An indirect sign of high cholesterol is the presence of extra pounds.

Measuring cholesterol at home

On-site laboratory: Some laboratories offer a home visit service. Cholesterol analysis in this case is carried out in the same way as in the laboratory.
Portable device: Cholesterol can be measured using a special device (such as Accutrend) and a set of test strips for it. This method is most suitable for a person who already has high cholesterol, or if there is a high risk of increasing it. Also, the device helps track the effectiveness of treatment if a person is taking cholesterol-lowering medications.
Often, such a device is capable of measuring glucose levels in addition to cholesterol content, that is, it can also be used as a glucometer.

Methods for diagnosing cholesterol levels

From a practical point of view, there are several methods for diagnosing cholesterol levels:

the above-mentioned determination of cholesterol using the express diagnostic method: does not involve any preliminary preparation, but also does not provide any reliable result, and having received the results of which, it may still be too early to think about how to reduce cholesterol in the blood to normal;
diagnostics at home: by the eyes or, for example, swelling of the legs - in this case, you can only determine the fact of the presence of more or less developed atherosclerosis;
laboratory methods in a hospital, clinic or medical center.

Of all the methods for diagnosing high cholesterol, the most reliable is the laboratory one. From the point of view of the method of blood analysis for cholesterol, diagnosis can be enzymatic and chemical (rarely used, because it is labor-intensive, although it gives high accuracy).

Laboratory diagnosis of cholesterol

The results of a biochemical blood test for cholesterol fractions can be affected by the following factors: smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages (see more: alcohol and high cholesterol), diet, taking certain medications. Therefore, laboratory diagnosis of cholesterol involves donating blood for analysis on an empty stomach (last meal - at least 12 hours before visiting the laboratory).

Fried and fatty foods, drinking alcohol, smoking and taking dietary supplements should be avoided 2–3 days before the test. You should warn your doctor about the fact that you are taking any medications: statins, vitamins, antibiotics, hormones, diuretics, antihypertensives, fibrates - they all affect the level of TC. Diagnosis of cholesterol in the blood is usually performed using the enzymatic method.

Determine cholesterol through computer diagnostics?

Cholesterol levels are not determined by computer diagnostics: neither in children, nor in adults, nor in the elderly. However, it is one of the methods for diagnosing cholesterol plaques that have undergone a hardening process (calcification). Essentially, this is an ultrasound examination with the construction of a computer model of blood vessels.

Diagnostics of blood vessels for high cholesterol

If you have high cholesterol, it would not be superfluous to diagnose the vessels using ultrasound examination of the thickness of the intima-media complex (IMT) of the carotid artery. This method allows you to determine the number of “old” (calcified) cholesterol plaques in the vessels of the neck. An alternative to examining carotid artery IMT is examining the coronary vessels of the heart, however, as practice shows, cholesterol plaques are the same in all blood vessels.

Measurement frequency

It is recommended to measure sugar concentration:

in the morning after waking up, without getting out of bed;
before eating;
1-2 hours after eating;
before, during and after physical activity;
5 hours after insulin administration;
before driving a car;
before bedtime.

If there is a high probability of hypoglycemic risk, it is advisable to additionally take a control measurement at 3-4 am.

In some cases, more frequent monitoring may be required:

for hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia;
when changing the dosage of the medicine;
at the beginning of taking a new drug;
when introducing new products into the diet;
when you feel unwell.

For type 1 diabetes, it is necessary to take measurements several times daily, and for type 2 diabetes, it is enough to measure glucose levels 4-7 times a week and do daily monitoring once every 7-10 days.

All readings received should be recorded in the Self-Control Diary and taken with you before visiting your doctor.

Glucometer and test strip

To measure cholesterol levels in the blood, certain types of glucometers are used. The instructions for their use should indicate: “Glucose + cholesterol.” The resulting indicator is comparable in accuracy to the result of a laboratory study. The device stores 15 cholesterol levels in its memory, recording the date and time of measurements. The best way to monitor your blood is to use your own cholesterol measuring device. In this case, you will be confident in the functionality and serviceability of the device, as well as in the accuracy of the readings obtained.

The operating principle of the devices is the same: after placing a drop of blood on a special test strip or in a special hole in the glucometer, it is processed by light elements. The blood darkens: the darker it is, the higher the cholesterol level. After a few minutes, the digital display of the analysis result is displayed on the device’s display. The devices allow you to determine blood cholesterol levels in the range from 2.6 to 10.4 mmol/l. If the display shows “LOW” (low level) or “<”, the reading is below 2.6 mmol/L. Results above 10.4 mmol/L are therefore displayed as “HIGH” or “>”. The diagnostic accuracy of the analysis is 97%. The device can be set to any cholesterol measurement unit.

Recommendations for selecting analyzers

All analyzers for determining blood cholesterol levels have their own characteristics. When choosing the optimal device, it is recommended to consider several factors:

Size and weight of the device - the convenience of the parameters for home or transportation should be taken into account;
Availability of minimum functions for your disease - the device must satisfy the necessary requirements;
Equipment - analyzers are produced with a plastic chip and test strips impregnated with a reagent. The second option is budget-friendly, but less comfortable to use;
Type of power supply – it is rational to buy a device with universal power supply from mains and batteries in case of an emergency cholesterol check;
Equipped with a puncture pen - its convenience guarantees safe and quick blood collection. Universal devices have a handle with an adjustable puncture length to ensure high-quality blood sampling;
Analysis processing time is considered optimal 3 minutes;
The error of the results provided must be indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging or in the instructions;
Technical equipment with additional options: alarm clock, connection to a PC, memory of the latest measurements. If it is necessary to monitor the dynamics of cholesterol levels, it is important to store information about the tests or be able to print it out and show it to the doctor;
A clear interface and control principle - especially important for elderly patients, who more than others need a home cholesterol check;
Maintenance guarantee.

Modern devices for self-monitoring of blood sugar levels

Determining blood glucose levels is one of the most common tests performed by clinical diagnostic laboratories. In addition to various laboratory methods for analyzing glucose levels, there are a large number of portable devices that operate on the principle of “dry chemistry”. We are talking about so-called glucometers, which allow you to carry out this procedure at home. The choice of device in each individual case depends on many objective and subjective factors, which are discussed in this article.

Historical reference

More than 100 years ago, it was discovered that eating carbohydrates increases the amount of sugar in the urine, and people with diabetes mellitus (DM) were advised not to eat foods containing carbohydrates as a treatment. The only method of monitoring the effectiveness of such restrictions was frequent determination of sugar levels in the urine using Benedict's reagent, a solution containing copper sulfate, citric acid and sodium carbonate. To carry out a qualitative analysis, it was necessary to add 8 drops of urine to 5 ml of the reagent in a test tube and boil the solution, holding it directly over the fire for 2 minutes. In this case, urine glucose was oxidized, as a result of which the intensity of the blue color of copper sulfate decreased, the color of the solution changed, and a colored precipitate formed. Color and sediment were indicators of urine glucose levels. A clear blue color without sediment indicated the absence of glucose, while changes in color - from green with a yellow sediment to deep orange or red - were directly related to the amount of sugar in the urine.

Determination of the level of glycosuria became most popular after the discovery of insulin in 1921 and was subsequently used in the treatment of diabetes. However, until 1941, that is, until Walter Compton and Maurice Treneer invented the first chemical test with a dry reagent in the form of Clinitest reagent tablets, there was no simpler way to control glycosuria. The tablets contained the same reagent as in the Benedict test, but in dry form with the addition of sodium hydroxide. The liquid needed to trigger the reaction was urine. The tablet was dropped into a small amount of urine in a test tube and an immediate reaction occurred, producing enough heat to cause it to boil. The glucose in the urine was oxidized, and the blue color of the copper sulfate was reduced, causing the solution to change color from blue to green to yellow and orange. The semi-quantitative result was assessed by visual comparison of the resulting color with the standard scale.

The first test strips with a “dry reagent” were demonstrated in 1956. We are talking about the Clinicix system - a test strip for determining glucose in urine. All necessary reagents (glucose oxidase, peroxidase and chromogen) were encapsulated in the porous strip base. The same enzyme principle was used in the 1964 development of Dextrostix, a disposable test strip for semi-quantitative blood glucose testing. The main component of the dry reagent contained three layers: a supporting layer, a reflective zone and a reacting zone. The water necessary to start the reaction was contained directly in the component under study (blood, plasma, serum, urine). The color obtained as a result of the reaction could be assessed visually by comparing it with a printed reference color scale. This allowed semi-quantitative analysis, the result of which depended largely on the user's ability to correctly compare the color of the test field with the sample. Many patients with diabetes who have vision problems could not correctly evaluate the results obtained, especially if there was a slight transition from blue to green.

Urinary glucose test strips are still used as a screening method and very rarely as a diagnostic method to adjust diabetes treatment. Despite the low cost of determining the level of glucosuria, this method does not allow prescribing high-quality treatment for diabetes, since it does not make it possible to detect hypoglycemia, and the results of the analysis depend on many factors affecting the renal excretion of glucose in the patient.

Considering the difficulties of qualitative subjective analysis of glycemic levels using visual test strips in patients with vascular and neurological complications of diabetes, manufacturers have developed devices for assessing changes in the color of the test strip.

Reflectometers

Reflectometers appeared in 1969 and were introduced by Bayer AG. They measured the reflected light from a colored test strip and converted the signal into a quantitative expression of glucose concentration. The first instruments were heavy and bulky, required manual calibration, and the test strip had to be rinsed and blotted before being placed in the instrument. The main advantage of these glucometers is that the measurement results were no longer semi-quantitative and, despite the wide analytical range, measurement errors that depended on the user’s ability to visually assess the color of the strip were excluded. However, the problem of misinterpretation of results was still present if the examiner did not scrupulously follow all manufacturers' instructions during the test. Thus, it was up to the user to comply with the rules for storing strips, programming the code, and obtaining a drop of blood of the required size (about 50 μl). It was also quite difficult to adhere to the time frame for applying a drop of blood to the test strip and the technique of erasing it from the test field before determining the color. If the test strip was not placed correctly in the meter, the test results would be unpredictable. These glucometers were designed in such a way that a chemical reaction to the test field occurred after placing the test strip in the glucometer, which subsequently required mandatory monitoring of the cleanliness of the optical zone of the device.

Nowadays, reflective glucose measurement systems are compact, easy to use and require minimal user intervention, which minimizes subjective errors. The use of new technologies (the color analyzer is placed under the test strip) eliminated the need to wipe off blood from the strip. Devices with automatic time counting appeared, and the amount of a drop of blood required for analysis was reduced to 1–2 μl. In addition, glucometers began to automatically warn the user about possible errors when measuring glycemia.

Biosensors

Biosensors appeared in the late 80s. last century and became the first generation of test strips using an “indelible” system for determining glycemia. A biosensor is a bioelectrochemical transducer that, together with a portable analyzer, registers the electrical signal produced during a biochemical reaction. Many devices use test strips with a sensor that includes an enzyme that very specifically accelerates the process of glucose oxidation and a mediator involved in the redox reaction.

The first glucose sensor, ExacTech (MediSense), used an electrode containing glucose oxidase as an enzyme and ferrosene as a mediator. The test field of the sensor consisted of two electrodes in the form of conductive “tracks”:

bioactive working electrode containing glucose oxidase and ferrosene;
a second electrode that functions as an auxiliary electrode and a reference electrode simultaneously.

The latest model sensors have three electrodes: reference, base and trigger, where the third electrode prevents high concentrations of uric acid, ascorbic acid and paracetamol from influencing the glucometer readings by “subtracting” electrons from the metabolites of the listed substances. The presence of excess (compared to normal) content of these compounds may slightly increase the level of glycemia.

When a drop of blood is placed on the test field, glucose is oxidized to gluconolactone and the glucose level decreases. The released electrons are absorbed by the mediator ferrosene, and the resulting compound is oxidized at the electrode. The flow of electrons is proportional to the blood glucose level.

A drop of blood in biosensors is applied to an electrode outside the device itself and does not come into contact with the internal component of the glucometer.

Principles of glucose measurement

The first chemical tests were too nonspecific, since they measured not only glucose but also other sugars and required the application of a very large drop of blood. Today, the measurement is more specific and less influenced by other sugars. Three enzymes are currently used to measure glycemia:

glucose oxidase;
hexokinase;
glucose dehydrogenase.

The glucose oxidase method is more susceptible to the influence of various drugs and other endogenous blood components than both other methods.

Glucometers

The table shows reflex and biosensor systems for measuring glucose registered in Russia. When used correctly, according to the manufacturer's recommendations, all of them generally reflect fairly accurate blood glucose levels.

The criteria for choosing a device depend on the frequency of its use by the patient, the cost of the device and test strips, as well as other factors, which include: the size of the device and display, type of batteries and ease of replacement, ease of use, availability of memory, warranty service. In addition, the following factors are taken into account.

Blood volume

Over the years of using glucometers, the volume of blood required to correctly determine glycemic levels has decreased significantly. The first generation test strips required at least 50 µl of blood; in the latest generation glucometers this volume is less than 2 µl. The user should be aware that some blood glucose meters or sensors may give low results if the blood drop is not large enough. In addition, the result will be erroneous if an additional drop of blood is applied to the test field if the first sample was insufficient.

In practice, patients often confuse the two main methods of blood collection. The first is when blood is dripped onto a strip - in which case the volume of blood usually must be controlled by the person measuring it. The second (capillary) is when, when touching a strip inserted into the glucometer, a drop of blood is itself absorbed in the required volume, while the glucometer “knows” when to start measuring and when to finish it. That is why the first method requires up to 50 µl, and the best samples of the second method require 0.3–3 µl. Some patients, without reading the instructions, try to drip blood, as they have long been accustomed, onto the sensor strip and a week later they come to replace the glucometer, despite the complete working order of the device.

Thus, it should always be taken into account that if the measurement procedure is performed correctly, any glucometer will give an adequate result.

Expiration date of test strips and their storage

Test strips are individually packaged or placed in a special tube that usually contains silica gel (a desiccant) to prevent excess moisture from affecting the reagent. The user must ensure that the test strip container is closed immediately after removing the strip, as remaining test strips must be stored at a specified temperature and not exposed to excessive heat or cold. Although test strips are stable at room temperature and have a shelf life of about two years, improper storage can accelerate the deterioration of the reagent, causing incorrect blood glucose readings. Test strips should not be used if they have exceeded their expiration date. It is also important to know that after opening the tube, the shelf life of the strips, as a rule, does not exceed 3-4 months; for the Accu-Chek Active and Accu-Chek Go test strips - up to 1-1.5 years (regardless of moment of opening the tube).

Effect of hematocrit

When the blood plasma interacts with the dry reagent of the test strip, it wets the dry chemical agents, which initiates the reaction. This mechanism is influenced by hematocrit when whole blood is used. Blood samples with a high hematocrit or increased viscosity may affect the rate or amount of plasma absorbed and mechanically impede glucose diffusion, resulting in underestimation of glycemic values. Accordingly, a sample with a low hematocrit overestimates the blood glucose level.

Limitation of use

The correct procedure for applying the blood sample to the test strip must be used with each test, so blood glucose meters that use whole blood are not suitable for some patients. Such glucometers cannot be used in patients with hyperosmolar hyperglycemia, since glycemic values may be significantly underestimated.

Please note that some medications and other substances specified by the manufacturer may affect the interpretation of measurement results. Reflective or biosensor glucose meters that use the glucose oxidase method of measuring glycemia are affected by high levels of blood lipids or bilirubin, paracetamol, vitamin C or uric acid.

Safety or Cross Contamination

The safety of using the device does not directly affect the performance of glycemic measurements, but the health of the patient and medical staff may be subject to cross-infection during the analysis. Safety is especially important when using a device on multiple patients (eg in a hospital setting), where you need to be sure that the selected device and lancets are the most appropriate for the situation and do not transmit infection. Medical staff should change test strips and, if necessary, clean the test zone of the device between blood glucose measurements in different patients, which is especially important when using glucometers in specialized children's hospitals to eliminate the risk of cross-infection.

Instrument calibration

Although blood glucose meters and sensors are calibrated by the manufacturer, users should also be aware of the calibration information for each pack of test strips or electrodes. Typically, code changes are manually made to the program using a special code button on the device. Because calibration has a significant impact on blood glucose results, manufacturers have attempted to minimize operator error when manually changing the code in the following ways:

information about the code is in the test strip; the glucometer “reads” it independently;
Each batch of test strips has a calibration key that is inserted into the meter;
Each batch of test strips contains calibration strips to transfer the necessary information to the meter.

Almost all blood glucose meters use capillary whole blood to measure blood glucose levels. Devices calibrated with whole blood will produce different glycemic values than those obtained with a meter calibrated with plasma, which should be kept in mind when interpreting your results.

Subjective factors influencing measurement results

Glucometers are widely used by both patients and healthcare professionals, ranging from nursing staff to professional diabetologists, and test results depend on the operator's ability to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Devices for personal use should be characterized by a minimum number of manipulations and be easy to use to reduce the likelihood of incorrect blood glucose measurements. Before recommending a particular device for home use, it is necessary to determine the patient’s capabilities and skills in performing this type of manipulation. Below are some of the most common features of blood glucose testing that help minimize operator error and improve the quality of your blood glucose measurements. Systems that do not require blood removal are characterized by the lowest number of operator errors.

Advantages of modern glucometers that eliminate user error:

minimal user participation;
applying calibration information to an electronic chip or calibration strip;
minimum blood volume;
capillary blood sampling;
automatic counting of measurement time;
no need to wipe off blood from the test area of the strip;
electronic warning about user errors;
mandatory quality control of the measurement procedure.

Glucometer Glucochrome M

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 2.2–22 mmol/l;
power supply - 2 batteries with a voltage of 1.5 V;
permissible external conditions - 15–35°C, up to 75% relative humidity;
measurement principle: photometric;
analysis time - 2 min;
calibration - whole capillary blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 15 values;
dimensions - 50 x 130 x 18 mm;
weight - 95 g (including battery);
control of operation - using control strips included in the kit of the Glucochrome M device;
Contents: device with battery, case, test strip, instruction manual.

Advantages of Glucochrome D test strips:

designed for both visual and automatic assessment of the result;
assessment colors are well defined and readable thanks to the separated reactive field;
color stability after the reaction leaves enough time to evaluate the result;
relatively low cost of test strips and the opportunity to receive them for free in some Russian cities.

Flaws:

the measurement results depend on the user’s ability to strictly follow the operating rules of the device;
test strips are packaged in a tube; storage conditions for open packaging should be carefully observed;
the analysis requires a large drop of blood - 10 μl;
It is necessary to erase a drop of blood from the test field of the strip after 1 minute. after application;
The optical zone of the device requires cleaning.

Glucose meter Glucocare

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 2.2–25 mmol/l;
power supply - 3 batteries with a voltage of 1.5 V (GP A 76);
permissible external conditions - 15–30°C, humidity less than 85%;
measurement principle: photochemical;
analysis method - glucose oxidase-peroxidase reaction;
analysis time - less than 1 minute;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 150 values;
dimensions - 101 x 50 x 15 mm;
weight - 58 g (including batteries);
performance control - control strips;
equipment - device, test strips (2 pcs.), pen for pricking the finger, 8 lancets, instructions;
Warranty period - 3 years.

Advantages:

memory for 150 analyzes with date and time indication;
There is an interface to the computer.

Flaws:

strips should be stored at a temperature of 5 - 30 ° C, in a dry place protected from direct sunlight;
strips must be used within 3 months. after the first opening of the tube;
Avoid direct sunlight on the test strip when performing the analysis;
the influence of hematocrit and cholesterol and triglyceride levels on study results;
taking orally or injecting large doses of vitamin C underestimates the true glucose concentration;
Dehydration and kidney dysfunction may also affect test results.

Glucometer Elta-Satellite

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 1.8–35 mmol/l;
power supply - 1 CR 2032 battery, voltage 3V;
measurement principle - electrochemical;
analysis time - 45 s;
calibration - whole capillary blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 40 values;
dimensions - 110 x 60 x 25 mm;
weight - 70 g;
control of operation - using the control strip included in the device;
coding - manually;
complete set - device with battery, strips in individual packaging (10 pcs.), case, control strip, instruction manual;
The warranty period is unlimited.

Advantages:

electrochemical measuring principle;
does not require blotting of test strips and control of measurement time;
each test strip is packaged in a separate sealed bag;
a drop of blood is applied outside the device;
Each device is covered by an unlimited warranty;
economical due to its affordable price and the use of inexpensive test strips.

Flaws:

a large drop of blood is required - at least 5 µl;
There is no protection system against incorrect measurement procedures.

Glucometer One Touch Profile

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 0–33.3 mmol/l, higher results are displayed on the screen as the inscription “Hi”;
power supply - 2 alkaline batteries, size AAA, voltage 1.5 V;
permissible external conditions - 15–35°C, humidity 0-90% (without condensation), hematocrit 25–60%;
measurement principle: photometric;
analysis time - 45 s;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 250 values;
dimensions - 109 x 66 x 30 mm;
weight - 127.5 g (including battery);
control of operation - using the control solution included in the device kit;
coding - manually;
equipment - device with battery, test strips (10 pcs.), Penlet Plus piercing pen, Fine Point lancets, control solution, case;
Warranty period - 5 years.

Advantages:

the test strip does not require wiping a drop of blood;
the results obtained can be marked with the corresponding names of “events” (on an empty stomach, before breakfast, after breakfast, etc.);
when you turn on the device for the first time, the average value of the results for 14 days appears on the screen;
there is a function “Insulin Information”;
You can view average results for 15 possible “events” on the screen, as well as the average blood test result for the last 30 days;
connecting the cable allows you to transfer information stored in the device’s memory to a computer for further processing using a special computer program.

Flaws:

it is necessary to wash the test strip holder from blood;
it is necessary to wipe the optical zone of the test from blood;
Applying an insufficient volume of blood is a mistake in conducting the study.

Glucometer One Touch Basic Plus

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 0–33.3 mmol/l, higher results are displayed on the screen as the inscription “Hi”;
power supply - 2 alkaline batteries, size AAA, voltage 1.5 V;
permissible external conditions - 15–35°C, humidity 0–90% (without condensation), hematocrit 25–60%;
measurement principle: photometric;
analysis time - 45 s;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 75 values;
dimensions - 109 x 66 x 30 mm;
weight - 116.2 g (including battery);
control of operation - using a test strip and control solution included in the device kit;
coding - manually;
equipment - device with battery, test strips (10 pcs.), pen for piercing Penlet Plus, Fine Point lancets, control solution, case, instructions and a brief test procedure;
Warranty period - 5 years.

Advantages:

the test strip does not require wiping a drop of blood;
connecting the cable allows you to transfer information stored in the device’s memory to a computer for further processing using a special computer program.

Flaws:

it is necessary to wash the test strip holder from blood;
it is necessary to wipe the optical zone of the test from blood;
Applying an insufficient volume of blood is a mistake in conducting the study.

Glucose meter One Touch Ultra

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 1.1–33.3 mmol/l;
power supply - 1 lithium battery with a voltage of 3 V (No. 2032);
permissible external conditions - 6–44 ° C, humidity 10-90%, hematocrit 30–55%;
measurement principle - electrochemical;
analysis method: biosensor glucose oxidase;
analysis time - 5 s;
calibration - blood plasma;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger, shoulder or forearm;
memory - 150 values;
dimensions - 79 x 57 x 21 mm;
weight - 2.5 g (including battery);
control of operation - using the control solution included in the device kit;
coding - manually;
equipment - device with battery, test strips (10 pcs.), pen for piercing One Touch Ultra Soft, replaceable cap One Touch Ultra Clear for obtaining a drop of blood from the shoulder/forearm , One Touch Ultra Soft lancets, control solution, soft sports case, instructions in Russian and warranty card;
Warranty period - 3 years.

Advantages:

the analysis result can be obtained in just 5 seconds;
capillary blood sampling - only 1–2 μl. A change in the color of the test strip will confirm that the blood volume is sufficient to obtain an accurate result;
touching the test strip does not affect the measurement result;
the test area is located outside the device, so blood does not enter the device;
You can choose the puncture site - hand or finger. Using a special One Touch Ultra Clear cap with a One Touch Ultra Soft piercing pen allows you to get a drop of blood not only from your finger, but also from your arm (shoulder or forearm);
stores the results of 150 tests in memory, indicating the date and time of the test. Calculates the average result for 14 and 30 days;
calibrated using blood plasma, so the analysis result is comparable in accuracy to the result obtained in the laboratory;
a computer user can connect a glucometer to it and use the In Touch LifeScan program to process data on a PC. A special wire is supplied with the device. The program can be downloaded free of charge from the LifeScan website on the Internet.

Flaws:

an opened bottle of test strips must be used within 3 months. After this period, the strips are unusable;
high cost of the device and test strips.

Glucometer SmartScan

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 1.1–33.3 mmol/l;
power supply - 2 batteries No. 357 based on silver oxide with a voltage of 1.5 V;
acceptable external conditions - 15–35°C, humidity 10–90%, hematocrit 30–55%;
measurement principle - electrochemical;
analysis method: biosensor glucose oxidase;
analysis time - 15 s;
calibration - blood plasma;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 150 values;
dimensions - 79 x 57 x 19 mm;
weight - 45.4 g (including battery);
control of operation - using the control solution included in the device kit;
coding - manually;
equipment - device with battery, test strips (10 pcs.), Penlet Plus piercing pen, Fine Point lancets, control solution, soft sports case, instructions in Russian;
warranty period - 3 years;

Advantages:

allows analysis using a small drop of blood measuring 2.5 μl;
capillary method of blood sampling;
test strips are reliably protected and can be touched anywhere on the strip;
calibrated using blood plasma for easier comparison with laboratory results;
stores the results of 150 tests in memory, indicating the date and time and automatically calculating the average result for 14 days;
The test area is located outside the device, so blood does not enter the device.

Flaw:

high cost of test strips.

Accu-Chek Active glucometer

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 0.6–33.3 mmol/l;
power supply - 1 lithium battery type CR2032;
permissible external conditions - 10–40°С, humidity 0–85%;
measurement principle: photometric;
analysis time - 5 s;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood;
memory - 200 values;
dimensions - 115 x 40 x 22 mm;
weight - 45 g (without battery);
performance control - control solution;
coding - code plate;
equipment - device with battery, 10 test strips, Accu-Chek Softclix finger pricking pen, 10 Accu-Chek Softclix lancets, case, instructions in Russian;
Warranty period - unlimited.

Advantages:

has the function of measuring blood glucose levels obtained from alternative places: forearm, shoulder, palm of the thumb, thigh or calves;
capillary method of blood sampling;
blood drops less than 2 μl;
there is an automatic on/off function;
additional memory functions: values indicating the time and date of measurement. Calculation of average values for 7 and 14 days;
wireless data transfer to a PC via infrared;
unlimited warranty period.

Flaws:

galactosemia, ketoacidosis, dehydration, increased bilirubin levels (up to 20 mg/dl), as well as the administration of solutions of oligo- or monosaccharides, ascorbic acid, solutions containing icodextrin, can lead to an incorrect result.

Glucose meter Accu-Chek Go

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 0.6–33.3 mmol/l;
power supply - 1 lithium battery type CR2030 or DL2430;
permissible external conditions - 10–40°С, humidity 0–85%;
measurement principle: photometric;
analysis time - 5 s;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 300 values;
dimensions - 113 x 46 x 22 mm;
weight - 55 g (without battery);
performance control - control solution;
coding - code plate;
equipment - device with battery, 10 test strips, Accu-Chek Softclix finger pricking pen, 10 Accu-Chek Softclix lancets, 1 Accu-Chek Softclix device attachment, case;
Warranty period - unlimited.

Advantages:

capillary method of blood sampling;
the ability to obtain a drop of blood from alternative sites (for example, shoulder, forearm);
there is no direct contact of the device with blood;
the presence of a mechanism for removing the test strip from the device ensures that there is no direct contact with blood or the used test strip;
turns on and off automatically, results are also saved automatically;
“alarm clock” function: you can set the sound signal to sound three times at different times of the day;
Hypoglycemia Alert: You can set both a visual and an audible alarm to alert you when your blood glucose levels are unusually low.
memory for 300 results (along with the date and time of the analysis);
infrared interface for transmitting data to a personal computer or laptop on which a program for analyzing the results is installed (Accu-Chek Pocket Compass software);
You can calculate the average of your blood glucose results over the past 7, 14, or 30 days;
unlimited warranty period.

Flaw:

high cost of the device and test strips.

Glucometer Ascensia Elite

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 1.1–33.3 mmol/l;
power supply - 2 lithium batteries with a voltage of 3 V (CR2030 or DL);
permissible external conditions - 10–40°С, automatic temperature compensation using built-in thermal strips, humidity 20–80%;
measurement principle - electrode-sensor technology;
analysis time - 30 s;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 20 values;
dimensions - 81 x 51 x 14 mm;
weight - 50 g (without battery);
operation control - test strip;
coding - using a code test strip;
equipment - device with batteries, 5 test strips, Microlet finger pricking device, 5 lancets, test strip, case, instructions, warranty card;
Warranty period - 5 years.

Advantages:

electrode-sensor technology for measuring glycemia;
capillary method of blood sampling;
volume of a drop of blood—2 μl;
automatic on/off function;
the device does not have a single button, so it is very easy to learn and use;
Each test strip is hermetically sealed, the use of one strip does not affect the shelf life of the remaining strips.

Flaws:

small amount of memory;
there is no interface to the computer.

Glucometer Ascensia Entrust

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 1.7–30.6 mmol/l;
power supply - 1 lithium disk battery with a voltage of 3 V (CR2032);
acceptable external conditions - 18–38°C, hematocrit 30–55%;
measurement principle - electrode-sensor technology;
analysis time - 30 s;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 10 values;
dimensions - 100 x 58 x 21 mm;
weight - 64 g;
operation control - control strip;
coding - electronic chip;
equipment - device with battery, 5 test strips, code card, control strip, microlet finger pricking device, 5 lancets, case, user manual, quick guide;
Warranty period - 5 years.

Advantages:

electrode-sensor technology for measuring glycemia;
capillary method of blood sampling;
automatic on/off function;
large strip field - easy to insert into the device and comfortable to hold in your hand;
two-step measurement procedure;
relatively low cost of the device and test strips.

Flaws:

small amount of memory;
there is no interface to the computer.

Glucometer Ascensia Confirm

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 0.6–33.0 mmol/l;
power supply - 1 lithium disk battery with a voltage of 3 V (CR2025);
permissible external conditions - 10–40°C, humidity 10–80%;
calibration - whole blood;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 100 values;
dimensions - 110 x 75 x 17 mm;
weight - 50 g;
coding - manually;
equipment - device with battery, 10 test strips, Microlet finger pricking device, 5 lancets, instructions;
Warranty period - 5 years.

Advantages:

the device is equipped with a disk containing 10 test strips at once;
capillary method of blood sampling;
blood drop volume - 3 µl;
average glycemic value for 14 days;
ability to connect to a computer.

Flaw:

high cost of the device.

Glucometer Super Glucocard 2 (Super Glucocard II)

Specifications:

measurement ranges - 1.1–33.3 mmol/l;
power supply - 2 lithium batteries with a voltage of 3 V (CR2032);
measurement principle - electrochemical;
analysis time - 30 s;
calibration - plasma/serum;
sample - fresh capillary blood from a finger;
memory - 20 values;
dimensions - 51 x 87 x 14.5 mm;
weight - 45 g;
operation control - control strip;
coding - coding strip;
equipment - device with battery, 10 test strips, coding strip, control strip, Multilancet finger pricking device, 10 lancets, case, instructions.

Advantages:

capillary blood sampling;
the ability to apply a drop of blood to the test strip outside the device;
blood drop volume - 3 µl;
the device has no buttons;
automatic on/off function;
Each test strip is packaged in a separate sealed bag.

Flaws:

small amount of memory;
there is no interface to the computer.

N. Yu. Arbatskaya, Candidate of Medical Sciences, City Clinical Hospital No. 1 named after. N. I. Pirogova, Moscow

How to measure glucose levels?

To determine the concentration of sugar in the blood, you must:

wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water and wipe dry;
insert the test strip into the device and turn it on;
pierce the pad of the middle, index or ring finger, after moving it to speed up blood circulation;
wipe off the first drop with a cotton swab and apply the second onto the test strip;
remove and discard the test strip;
turn off the device.

The result will be known in 5-60 seconds (depending on the model).

To obtain accurate results, you must strictly follow the rules for using the glucometer:

Before taking measurements, calibrate the device;
After the puncture, lightly massage your finger without squeezing out the blood;
Store test strips correctly, observing the expiration date;
check that the numbers on the test strip packaging correspond to the code on the screen;
clean the device in a timely manner;
Change lancets after each blood draw.

Every diabetic should have an individual glucometer. You should not use someone else's device.

Meters for quick testing

All electronic measuring instruments are configured for the express method. Thanks to the automaticity of the analyzers, the result can be obtained within 2-4 minutes after applying the biomaterial.

Among the multifunctional meters, the following reliable brands can be distinguished:

Easy Touch – blood analyzer for total cholesterol, glucose and hemoglobin levels;
Accutrend Plus – is capable of measuring not only the main set of indicators, but also blood plasma lactates;
MultiCare-in – determines the level of cholesterol, triglycerides, sugar concentration;
“Element Multi” - unique in its function of controlling lipid and carbohydrate processes, shows the level of all central characteristics: cholesterol (divided into types of lipoprotein density), sugar, triglycerides;
CardioChek is a biochemical element analyzer with a detailed cholesterol calculation. The device determines the level of high-density lipoproteins, total cholesterol, ketones, triglycerides, and glucose.

What happens?

When taking express tests, the doctor looks at 3 indicators:

General level.

The normal value is 5.2 mmol/N. If the indicator is below the norm, psychophysiological disorders are possible; an excess may signal the development of atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus;

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are needed by the body to function normally. This is the “good” cholesterol. High content helps reduce the risk of vascular plaques. Low levels can lead to the development of atherosclerosis;

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) come from food and should be kept to a minimum.

To decipher the results, you should make an appointment with a cardiologist. The specialist will evaluate the obtained values and their relationship, if necessary, prescribe additional studies, or make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

Important information about cholesterol

Cholesterol metabolism - schematically

Cholesterol is a lipid compound in the human body that consists of fat cells and proteins. This substance is of considerable importance for many organs and tissues.

At the cellular level, it is found in all nodes of the body, providing:

normal functioning of cell membranes;
secretion of vital compounds for the body;
stable and proper functioning of human internal systems (genital organs, stomach, liver, etc.).

It is irrational to argue that cholesterol is important and beneficial for the body. But this picture is preserved only at a certain content of the substance. Too high and low cholesterol levels are a bad phenomenon that causes many disorders in the functioning of the human body.

In modern scientific and medical fields, cholesterol is divided into:

Bad (low-density compounds) – a set of lipid compounds that do not have beneficial functions for the body.
Good (high-density compounds) – lipids that are necessary for the normal functioning of the body and provide benefits to it.
General (compounds with both low and high density) – all types of lipids found in the human body without taking into account their beneficial or negative properties.

The content of different types of cholesterol must be within specific limits, otherwise a person’s internal nodes will not be able to function normally and without problems. Any deviation can provoke disruptions in the functioning of the whole organism.

The most dangerous is bad cholesterol, which has the most harmful effects on humans. Its excessive accumulation provokes:

I know that I can...

The study, conducted by German specialists, involved 135 people who previously had high cholesterol levels. They all had information about how to lower cholesterol levels by adjusting your diet. Half of the participants were given devices to determine blood cholesterol levels, and they were required to independently carry out control measurements once every 2 weeks. The second half of the study participants did not receive such a device; they had to control their diet and take a blood test once a month.

At the beginning of the study, the average cholesterol level in the blood of volunteers was 6.5 mmol/l. Six months after the start of the experiment, in the first group it dropped to 4.4 mmol/l and was 0.8 mmol/l less than in the blood of people who did not have the opportunity to measure cholesterol levels on their own.