Which method is recognized as the reference method for measuring serum glucose?

The hexokinase method is recognized as the reference method for measuring serum glucose due to its high specificity and sensitivity. This enzymatic method involves the phosphorylation of glucose in the presence of ATP to form glucose-6-phosphate, which is then converted to glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, producing a measurable change in absorbance. This reaction is not only specific for glucose but also minimizes interference from other substances that may be present in serum.

The hexokinase method is widely regarded as the gold standard because it provides accurate results across various glucose concentrations, making it suitable for diagnosing conditions like diabetes mellitus. Additionally, the method's reliance on a key enzymatic reaction contributes to its robustness, allowing for reproducibility and standardization in clinical laboratories.

Other methods mentioned may be used for glucose measurement but have limitations that prevent them from being classified as reference methods. For instance, the glucose oxidase method, while commonly used, can be impacted by interference from other oxidizable substances in the serum. Therefore, the hexokinase approach stands out as the preferred method for precise and reliable glucose quantification in clinical settings.