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Glucose in Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose, a type of sugar, in your blood serum. Glucose is the primary energy source for your body’s cells.

Quick summary

["This test helps monitor blood sugar levels, often used in diabetes management."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55510-2
Short code
GH 1.5h p Glc SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 1.5h p Glc SerPl-mCnc
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for high or low blood sugar levels, diagnose diabetes, or evaluate how your body responds to treatments like insulin or medications. It may also be done during pregnancy to monitor gestational diabetes or before surgeries to assess overall health.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a fasting blood panel. Wear comfortable clothing and avoid eating or drinking anything except water during this time.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood is collected in a tube and sent to the lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). High glucose levels may indicate diabetes or other metabolic conditions, while very low levels could signal hypoglycemia or other issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Glucose

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status. If you have diabetes, your provider may recommend testing every few months or annually. Others may need it less often, such as during pregnancy or before certain procedures.
What does a normal range mean for me?
A normal range isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your results will be compared to your baseline and any known conditions. For example, fasting glucose levels above a certain threshold may trigger further testing for diabetes.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test result?
Yes! Diet, exercise, and stress can impact blood sugar levels. If you’ve made recent changes, discuss them with your provider to ensure accurate interpretation of results.
  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