C-PeptideWhat To Think About- A C-peptide test must be done at the same time
as a blood glucose test. For more information, see the medical test
Blood Glucose.
- A person with new type 2
diabetes often has a normal or high level of C-peptide in the blood. Over time,
a person with type 2 diabetes may develop a low level of C-peptide.
- To help tell the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes and
to help guide treatment, most health professionals look at a person's age,
weight, and how long symptoms have been present. In rare cases, a C-peptide
stimulation test may be done to help tell the difference between the two types
of diabetes. During a C-peptide stimulation test, a blood sample is taken to
measure C-peptide. Then a shot of a hormone to increase blood sugar (glucagon)
is given into a vein in the arm. Another blood sample is taken. In people with
type 1 diabetes, C-peptide levels will be low because the pancreas cannot make
any insulin in response to the glucagon. In people with type 2 diabetes,
C-peptide levels will be higher than the first blood test because the pancreas
is making more insulin in response to the glucagon.
| |
Go to previous section
Go to top of page
Go to next section
