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Glucose in Serum (24-Hour Urine Collection)

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

This test measures how much glucose (sugar) appears in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how well your body controls blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["Helps identify long-term sugar control and potential diabetes-related kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33087-8
Short code
GA from O-O BPD.Chitty 1997
Synonyms
GA from O-O BPD.Chitty 1997
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-o-o-bpd-chitty
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, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight loss. It’s also used to monitor kidney function in people with diabetes or other conditions that affect blood sugar regulation.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after you wake up the next morning and ending the same time the next day. Store the urine in a clean container and keep it refrigerated until you return it to the lab. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

The urine sample is analyzed to measure glucose levels. This test helps detect excessive glucose in urine, which can indicate poor blood sugar control or kidney problems.

Possible Results and Their Meaning

Higher-than-normal glucose in urine may suggest diabetes, kidney issues, or other metabolic conditions. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing or lifestyle changes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Glucose

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they have the results.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally. The test focuses on urine collection over 24 hours, not fasting.
What if I miss any urine during the collection period?
If you miss any urine, you’ll need to restart the collection from the beginning. Follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure accuracy.
  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