Name of the Condition

• Impaired Glucose Tolerance (Oral)
• Also referred to as IGT.

Summary

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is a prediabetic state of hyperglycemia that is associated with insulin resistance. While not diabetes itself, it indicates a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Causes

Impaired glucose tolerance is often caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity, which contribute to insulin resistance.

Risk Factors

• Being overweight or obese
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of diabetes
• Age, with increased risk after 45
• History of gestational diabetes
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Symptoms

IGT usually does not cause any noticeable symptoms. It is often discovered during testing for diabetes or other medical conditions.

Diagnosis

• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Measures the body's response to sugar.
• Fasting blood glucose level: Higher than normal but not high enough to be classified as diabetes.

Treatment Options

• Lifestyle modification: Improving diet and increasing physical activity.
• Medications: In some cases, medications such as metformin may be prescribed to help manage blood sugar levels.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With proper lifestyle changes and medical management, the risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes can be reduced. Regular monitoring through blood tests is essential to ensure normal glucose levels are maintained.

Complications

If left unmanaged, impaired glucose tolerance can progress to type 2 diabetes, increasing the risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney problems, and nerve damage.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Adopting a balanced, nutritious diet low in sugars and refined carbohydrates.
• Regular physical activity is crucial in managing body weight and improving insulin sensitivity.
• Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of progression to diabetes.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical advice if you have risk factors for diabetes or if regular screening tests indicate high blood sugar levels.

Additional Resources

• American Diabetes Association (ADA)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Diabetes Information
• Local diabetes support groups

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accuracy by verifying test results that confirm IGT before coding.
• Avoid confusing IGT with full-blown diabetes mellitus codes.
• Always check for documentation specificity when determining whether to code IGT or another related condition.