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Glucose (24-hour urinary collection)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period.

Quick summary

["Assesses how well your body manages blood sugar over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58090-2
Short code
G6PD NBS comment
Synonyms
G6PD NBS comment
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
true
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

Glucose in urine can indicate how your kidneys are handling blood sugar. While small amounts may occur naturally, higher levels could signal conditions like diabetes or kidney issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll collect urine for 24 hours, starting and ending with your first morning urine. Store samples at room temperature and return them promptly to the lab.

How the Test Works

Your urine is analyzed to detect glucose, which is measured in a specific concentration unit. This helps assess urinary glucose excretion levels.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Elevated glucose in urine may be due to diabetes, kidney problems, or certain medications. Low levels might suggest dehydration or metabolic issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urinary glucose result mean?
A high urinary glucose result may indicate uncontrolled blood sugar levels (e.g., diabetes) or kidney dysfunction. Your healthcare provider will discuss next steps, such as further blood tests or lifestyle adjustments.
What does a low urinary glucose result mean?
Low urinary glucose could mean your kidneys are reabsorbing glucose effectively, possibly due to dehydration or other metabolic factors. This may not always require further testing but should be reviewed by your doctor.
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically ordered if you have symptoms of diabetes, kidney issues, or if monitoring blood sugar is needed. Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health needs.
  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