Patients receiving parenteral drug products containing maltose, galactose or oral xylose can give falsely high blood glucose values when using point-of-care glucose meters such as those used at UIHC as well as many home meters.  This is because the meters cannot distinguish glucose from maltose, galactose, or xylose.  Methods for glucose determination used in the Core Labs, Critical Care Lab, or Special Care Nursery Lab are not affected.  Further information can be found at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

Questions can be directed to Bill Ganschow, MT(ASCP)SH (4-5313) or Ron Feld, Ph.D. (6-1759).