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Glucose in Serum (24-Hour Urine Collection)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose found in your urine over a 24-hour period, which helps assess how well your body is handling blood sugar.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions related to blood sugar control."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33108-2
Short code
GA from GSD.Tokyo86
Synonyms
GA from GSD.Tokyo86
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-gsd-tokyo
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 symptoms of diabetes, such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used to check for conditions like kidney problems or to evaluate how well medications for diabetes are working.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all your urine for 24 hours, starting from one point in time (often midnight). Store the urine in a clean container, keeping it refrigerated if possible. Bring the full collection to your lab appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

No special preparation is needed beyond the urine collection. The lab will analyze the sample to measure glucose levels in your urine.

What Do Results Mean?

Higher-than-normal glucose in urine can indicate poor blood sugar control, diabetes, or other metabolic issues. Your provider will discuss results with you based on your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Glucose in urine is a key marker for diabetes and other metabolic disorders. Elevated levels can signal impaired glucose tolerance, kidney issues, or ineffective diabetes management. This test helps guide treatment plans and monitor long-term health risks.

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result may mean your body isn’t managing blood sugar well, which could indicate diabetes or another condition affecting glucose metabolism. Your provider will review it with you to determine next steps.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will decide how often you need this test based on your health status, medications, and symptoms. Regular follow-ups may be recommended if you have diabetes or related conditions.
Can I eat or drink anything before the urine collection?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally during the 24-hour collection period. Avoiding special diets or fluids is not required unless instructed by your provider.
  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