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Fructosamine (Total Protein-Bound Fructosamine)

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

This test measures the total amount of fructose attached to proteins in your blood, reflecting your blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 weeks.

Quick summary

["Helps assess long-term blood sugar control in diabetes or prediabetes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48432-9
Short code
Fructose ?Tm sub Smn Qn
Synonyms
Fructose ?Tm sub Smn Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes to check how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time. It can also help monitor treatment effectiveness or detect complications like diabetic neuropathy.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to measure the protein-bound fructose levels, which are then compared to a reference range for interpretation.

What Does the Test Result Mean?

Higher than expected levels may indicate poor blood sugar control, while lower levels could suggest recent improvements in management or certain medical conditions affecting protein metabolism.

What Are Possible Causes of Abnormal Results?

Elevated levels may be linked to prolonged high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), while low levels could result from conditions like liver disease, severe malnutrition, or certain medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Fructosamine Levels

Short name

Fructosamine Level

Frequently asked questions

What factors might affect my test results?
Several factors could influence your fructosamine levels, including recent blood sugar fluctuations, certain medications (like steroids or insulin), liver or kidney disease, and nutritional status. Always discuss any recent changes in diet, medications, or health conditions with your provider.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your medical condition. If you have diabetes, your provider may recommend testing every few months to monitor long-term blood sugar trends. Follow their specific guidance based on your care plan.
Can diet or exercise affect this test?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet and exercise can influence blood sugar levels, which in turn affect fructosamine. While you can’t directly alter fructosamine levels, maintaining stable blood sugar through healthy habits supports accurate test results.
  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