Early diagnosis of diabetes in the elderly is often difficult because the classic symptoms of diabetes may be absent. What is the most reliable indicator of diabetes in the elderly?
A) High blood glucose level
B) Glaucoma
C) High urinary glucose level
D) Kidney failure
A
Feedback:
A high blood glucose level, as shown by a glucose tolerance test, is the most reliable indicator. Although glycosuria is evident in younger diabetic patients, it may not occur in the elderly, even when they have hyperglycemia. Glaucoma and kidney failure may result from diabetes eventually, but they can also have other causes.
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