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Serum or plasma mass concentration of glucose (24-hour urinary collection)

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

This test measures the total amount of glucose excreted in your urine over a full day. It helps assess how well your body is managing glucose levels, especially in conditions like diabetes.

Quick summary

["This test helps track long-term glucose control and identify urinary glucose loss, which may indicate diabetes or other metabolic issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55514-4
Short code
GH 20M p Exc SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 20M p Exc SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
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 if you have diabetes or are at risk for it. It’s also used to monitor kidney function and check for conditions like glycosuria (glucose in urine), which can occur with diabetes or other metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, typically starting after midnight one day and ending the same time the next day. Store the urine in a refrigerator to preserve it. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully for accurate results.

How the Test Is Performed

The test involves measuring the total glucose content in your urine sample. The urine is analyzed using a specialized method (likely enzymatic or chromatographic) to determine the mass concentration of glucose over the 24-hour period.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as the total mass of glucose excreted in grams or milligrams over 24 hours. High levels may indicate uncontrolled diabetes, kidney issues, or other metabolic conditions. Low levels may suggest poor urine collection or underlying metabolic problems.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Glucose (Mass Concentration)

Frequently asked questions

What causes high urinary glucose levels?
High urinary glucose levels are most commonly linked to diabetes (both type 1 and type 2), where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar properly. Other possible causes include kidney diseases, hormonal imbalances, or certain medications. If you suspect an underlying issue, discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider.
What should I do if my 24-hour urine glucose test is abnormal?
If your results are elevated, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as fasting blood glucose or hemoglobin A1c, to better understand your condition. They may also adjust your treatment plan, including medication, diet, or lifestyle changes. Follow up with your provider to address concerns and work toward better management of your health.
Can I drink fluids during the 24-hour urine collection period?
Yes, you can drink fluids as usual during the 24-hour collection, but avoid excessive caffeine or sugary drinks, which could affect the test results. Ensure you collect all urine (including any overnight urine) in a sealed container provided by your lab. If you miss any urine, contact your provider to clarify 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