Fructosamine (Serum)
This test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past two to three weeks by tracking glycated proteins, reflecting how your body has managed glucose over time.
["Helps assess long-term blood sugar control, especially useful for monitoring diabetes management."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53550-0
- Short code
- Fructosamine/Prot SerPl-Rto
- Synonyms
- Fructosamine/Prot SerPl-Rto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 200
- Ref high
- 285
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Fructosamine is useful for patients with diabetes or prediabetes because it provides a snapshot of your blood sugar control over a longer period than a single glucose measurement. It helps doctors track trends and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is analyzed to detect glycated proteins—specifically, proteins that have bonded with excess sugar. This test doesn’t require fasting and can be done anytime, making it convenient for regular monitoring.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, similar to other blood tests. The sample is processed in the lab to measure the glycated protein levels, which are then reported as a percentage or concentration.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, or take medication as usual. If you have a history of bleeding disorders or are on blood thinners, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Reference range
NCBI: Fructosamine 200-285 µmol/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Fructosamine Level
Frequently asked questions
Fructosamine levels can indicate whether your blood sugar has been consistently high or low over time. Elevated levels may suggest poor diabetes control, while lower levels might indicate periods of lower glucose. It’s particularly helpful for patients who may not experience symptoms of hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
What Are Normal Results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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