Post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM) is a serious complication that develops in up to 30% of organ transplant recipients, characterized by impaired glucose metabolism after transplantation. It is caused by immunosuppressive medications, particularly tacrolimus and corticosteroids, which damage pancreatic beta cells and induce insulin resistance. The Tacrolimus, Highly Sensitive, LC/MS/MS test is the most important test for preventing PTDM because it ensures optimal drug levels that minimize diabetes risk while preventing organ rejection.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Post-transplant diabetes mellitus is caused by immunosuppressive medications required to prevent organ rejection, particularly tacrolimus, cyclosporine, and corticosteroids. These medications interfere with insulin production by damaging pancreatic beta cells and create insulin resistance in muscle and fat tissues. Tacrolimus is especially problematic because it directly inhibits insulin gene transcription and reduces pancreatic insulin secretion, while corticosteroids increase glucose production in the liver and decrease insulin sensitivity throughout the body.
The Tacrolimus, Highly Sensitive, LC/MS/MS test is the most important blood test for preventing post-transplant diabetes mellitus because it measures precise drug levels to maintain the delicate balance between preventing organ rejection and minimizing diabetes risk. This highly sensitive test uses advanced mass spectrometry to detect exact tacrolimus concentrations, allowing your doctor to adjust dosing before pancreatic damage occurs. Regular monitoring of tacrolimus levels, combined with periodic fasting glucose and hemoglobin A1c tests, provides comprehensive surveillance to catch early signs of glucose metabolism problems before full diabetes develops.
You should get tested for tacrolimus levels regularly throughout your post-transplant care, typically every few weeks initially and then monthly once stable, as directed by your transplant team. Get immediate testing if you experience symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, blurred vision, or persistent fatigue, as these may indicate developing diabetes. Testing becomes especially critical during the first year after transplantation when diabetes risk is highest, during medication dose changes, or if you have additional risk factors like obesity, family history of diabetes, or hepatitis C infection.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
505 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Lab Guide
Quick questions:
