Q: Which of the following uncontrolled disease process may results in overestimation of oxygen saturation by pulse-ox 

A) Diabetes
B) Hypertension
C) Congestive Heart Failure
D) Sickle Cell Trait
E) Sleep Apnea Syndrome


Answer:  A

In diabetic patients with HbA1C more than 7 may cause overestimation of oxygen saturation by pulse-ox. This is probably due to an increased hemoglobin oxygen affinity.



 References: 

 Pu LJ, Shen Y, Lu L, et al. Increased blood glycohemoglobin A1c levels lead to overestimation of arterial oxygen saturation by pulse oximetry in patients with type 2 diabetes. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2012; 11:110.