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Serum/plasma mass concentration of glucose (measured via enzymatic method)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood, typically drawn from a vein or collected in a serum/plasma sample.

Quick summary

["Glucose levels help monitor blood sugar control, especially for diabetes or metabolic health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104873-5
Short code
GDS pnl SerPlBld
Synonyms
GDS pnl SerPlBld
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for high or low blood sugar levels. Common reasons include diagnosing or managing diabetes, assessing metabolic disorders, or evaluating symptoms like excessive thirst, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes.

Sample Collection and Preparation

Blood is usually collected via a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then analyzed for glucose concentration using an enzymatic method to ensure accurate results.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for a few hours before the test if it’s part of a fasting glucose profile.

What the Results Mean

The results provide a quantitative measure of glucose in your blood. While reference ranges vary by lab, they help determine whether your blood sugar is within normal limits, elevated, or low.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Glucose levels are critical for diagnosing conditions like diabetes, where consistently high or low levels can lead to serious health complications. Abnormal results may prompt further testing or lifestyle adjustments to improve blood sugar management.

Short name

Glucose Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal glucose levels?
Abnormal glucose levels can result from conditions like diabetes, hormonal imbalances, infections, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and stress also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required (e.g., for a fasting glucose test), avoid food and liquids—except water—until the test is scheduled. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
  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