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Glycated Serum Albumin (Hemoglobin A1c alternative, measured via serum glycation)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures how much sugar (glucose) has been attached to albumin, a protein in your blood, over time. It reflects your average blood sugar levels during the past 2–3 months.

Quick summary

["Helps track long-term blood sugar control, useful for those with diabetes or prediabetes who may not have a traditional HbA1c test."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1758-2
Short code
Albumin Glycated SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Albumin Glycated SerPl-mCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
3 N/A – 14 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82040
SNOMED
22383007
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters for You

Unlike HbA1c, which measures glycated hemoglobin, glycated albumin reflects recent glucose exposure more closely. This can be particularly useful for monitoring blood sugar in certain conditions or populations where HbA1c may not be reliable.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is analyzed to detect albumin molecules that have chemically bonded with glucose. The percentage of glycated albumin indicates how much sugar your body has been exposed to over time.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. If you’re on insulin or certain medications, let your provider know, as they may affect results.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are typically reported as a percentage. Higher levels suggest prolonged elevated blood sugar, while lower levels may indicate better control. Your provider will discuss these results in the context of your overall health.

Reference range

Adult: 3.5-5.0 g/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Glycated Albumin (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

How does glycated albumin differ from HbA1c?
Is this test used for everyone with diabetes?
What if my glycated albumin is high?
Can I fast before this test?
No fasting is required, but let your provider know if you’re taking medications that affect blood sugar, as this may influence results.
This test may be used in cases where HbA1c is not reliable (e.g., recent blood loss, hemolytic anemia), to monitor glucose trends in acute illness, or in populations where glycated albumin is a preferred metric (e.g., certain ethnic groups or specific clinical scenarios).
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy