Glucose in Serum (24-hour Profile)
This test measures your blood sugar levels over a 24-hour period using samples collected from your serum. It helps doctors assess how your body manages glucose, especially if you have or are at risk for diabetes or other metabolic conditions.
["This test provides a full picture of your blood sugar control throughout the day, aiding in diagnosing or monitoring conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11909-9
- Short code
- GA from CRL
- Synonyms
- GA from CRL
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-estimated-from-crl
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of diabetes (such as frequent urination, extreme thirst, or unexplained weight changes), if you have a family history of diabetes, or if you’re at risk due to other health factors like obesity or high blood pressure. It can also be used to monitor how well your current treatment plan is working.
How the Test Works
Blood samples are collected at different times over 24 hours to measure glucose levels in your serum. The samples are analyzed using a specialized immunoassay method to detect glucose concentrations accurately.
Sample Collection Process
You’ll need to collect blood samples at consistent intervals (e.g., every few hours) for 24 hours. Your healthcare provider will guide you on the exact timing and how to safely draw blood at home or in a clinic.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain foods or drinks that could affect results (like sugary snacks or caffeine). Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps identify patterns in your blood sugar levels that might indicate diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic disorders. Abnormally high or low glucose readings over time can signal underlying health issues that need attention, such as poor glucose tolerance or reactive hypoglycemia.
Short name
24-Hour Serum Glucose Profile
Frequently asked questions
What does a 24-hour glucose profile tell me about my health?
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before or during the blood collection?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy