Read the result.
Then look at the context.
A calculated index is one part of an assessment.
1. Verify the inputs
Confirm the sample timing and units on the laboratory report. Fasting indices depend on paired values and stable sampling conditions. Our fasting forms ask you to confirm these conditions before calculating.
2. Know which number you calculated
| Result | What it represents | Key limit |
|---|---|---|
| HOMA1-IR | Fasting resistance estimate | Not a universal diagnostic threshold |
| HOMA1-%B | Basal beta-cell function estimate | Not beta-cell mass |
| QUICKI | Fasting sensitivity index | Use base-10 logs and the correct units |
| TyG | Triglyceride–glucose surrogate | Check equation convention before comparison |
| eAG | HbA1c-based average glucose estimate | Not an individual glucose prediction |
3. Avoid score-based treatment decisions
A result cannot select medication, diagnose diabetes, or establish an individual treatment target. Review the laboratory report and relevant diagnostic tests with your clinician.
4. Compare like with like
When following results over time, record the model, assay, units, conversion factor and sampling conditions. A change in methodology can change the score.
Bring these questions to your appointment
- Were my samples taken under comparable conditions?
- Which diagnostic tests are relevant to my situation?
- Does the laboratory provide an appropriate reference for this assay?
- Would repeating an unexpected result help?
Wallace et al. · Use and abuse of HOMA, 2004 (opens in a new tab) · NIDDK · Diabetes tests and diagnosis (opens in a new tab) · Katz et al. · QUICKI, 2000 (opens in a new tab) · Zhou et al. · TyG methodology, 2024 (opens in a new tab) · Nathan et al. · ADAG study, 2008 (opens in a new tab)