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Fructosamine (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures a type of sugar protein in your blood that reflects your blood sugar levels over the past two to three weeks. It helps assess long-term glucose control, especially useful for people with diabetes.

Quick summary

["This test helps track how well your blood sugar is managed over time."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99036-6
Short code
dfrA7+dfrA17 Islt/Spm Ql
Synonyms
dfrA7+dfrA17 Islt/Spm Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a fructosamine test if you have diabetes or prediabetes to monitor your blood sugar control. It’s particularly useful when other tests like hemoglobin A1c may not be available or when you have conditions affecting red blood cell lifespan.

What Does the Test Measure?

Fructosamine levels reflect average blood sugar exposure over weeks, unlike hemoglobin A1c, which measures over months. This test can help identify trends in blood sugar management that might not be obvious from daily readings alone.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure fructosamine levels.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to reference ranges provided by your lab. High fructosamine levels may indicate poor blood sugar control, while low levels could suggest consistently lower blood sugar levels, though this is less common.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Fructosamine in Diabetes Management

Short name

Fructosamine Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
Fructosamine testing frequency depends on your diabetes management plan. Your healthcare provider may recommend it every few months to monitor trends in blood sugar control, especially if you’re adjusting medications or have other health conditions affecting glucose metabolism.
What if my fructosamine level is outside the normal range?
If your fructosamine level is high, it suggests your blood sugar levels have been consistently elevated over time. Your provider may recommend adjustments to diet, exercise, or medication to improve control. If low, discuss with your provider to ensure your treatment plan aligns with your needs.
Does this test require fasting?
No, fructosamine testing does not require fasting. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy