A new metabolite panel test for identification of patients with impaired glucose tolerance? Analysis of the article by Cobb et al.

The article by Cobb et al represents solid research work applying the most sophisticated laboratory technologies, a very sound clinical research methodology, and valid statistical analysis procedures. The authors have identified a combination of metabolites suitable to replace the oral glucose tolerance test procedure in the identification of patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) from a fasting blood draw. However, the discussed pathophysiological, clinical, and economic aspects may induce mechanisms restricting the probability of a global acceptance of this test for daily routine.