Lack of precision in HbA1c values on variant II in cases of hemoglobin Q India

This study was carried out to check the precision of HbA1c values on Bio-Rad Variant II in cases of a rare hemoglobin variant Q India. The study was carried out over a three month period on samples collected for HbA1c estimation. Seven out of eleven patients showed variable results of HbA1c with a very high and unacceptable intraday mean coefficient of variation (CV) of 9.93%. We conclude, that the results of HbA1c on Variant II can not be reported without adversely affecting HbA1c as a marker of long-term glycemic control in patients who have hemoglobin Q India. The HbA1c value of these patients needs to be assessed by a different instrument/method or the glycemic control be monitored by an alternate test like serum Fructosamine.