Glucose in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) present in your blood serum or plasma. It helps assess blood sugar levels, which are important for managing conditions like diabetes.
["A simple blood test to check your blood sugar levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46406-5
- Short code
- GH 30M p 1 g/kg Glc PO SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 30M p 1 g/kg Glc PO 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to monitor blood sugar levels for conditions such as diabetes, to check for signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), or to evaluate how your body responds to treatments like insulin or oral medications.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test, depending on the reason for it. A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch or discomfort.
What Happens During the Test?
The blood sample is collected and sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure glucose levels. The results are typically available within a few hours or the next day, depending on your lab’s process.
What Do the Results Mean?
Results are compared to standard reference ranges to determine if your blood sugar is within normal limits, too high, or too low. Your healthcare provider will discuss these results with you and explain any actions needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing and managing diabetes and other metabolic conditions. High glucose levels can indicate diabetes or other endocrine disorders, while consistently low levels may signal hypoglycemia or other underlying issues. Regular monitoring helps prevent complications and ensures proper treatment.
Short name
Serum/Plasma Glucose
Frequently asked questions
Why might my glucose test be done without fasting?
What should I do if my glucose level is high or low?
Can I eat or drink anything before a fasting glucose test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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