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Glucose in Serum/Plasma (24-Hour Urine Collection)

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

This test measures how much glucose (sugar) appears in your urine over a full day. It helps assess how well your body controls blood sugar, especially in conditions like diabetes.

Quick summary

["This test helps track long-term sugar balance and kidney function in diabetes management."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56526-7
Short code
GH 30M p Exc SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH 30M 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to monitor your diabetes treatment plan. It helps check if your kidneys are filtering glucose properly and if your blood sugar levels are consistently controlled over time.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after midnight of one day and ending just before midnight the next. Store samples properly to prevent contamination or degradation.

How the Test Works

The collected urine is analyzed to measure total glucose excreted. This is different from a single blood glucose test and gives a broader picture of your body’s sugar handling over time.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Higher-than-expected glucose in urine may indicate poor diabetes control, kidney issues, or other metabolic conditions. Your provider will discuss results and adjust care as needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Glucose

Frequently asked questions

Why did my doctor ask for this urine glucose test?
Your doctor may have recommended it to evaluate long-term blood sugar control, assess kidney function, or check for signs of diabetes-related complications. It helps track how well your treatment plan is working over time.
What does a high urine glucose result mean?
A high result suggests your body isn’t effectively managing blood sugar, which could indicate poor diabetes control, kidney issues, or other metabolic problems. Your provider will review your overall health and treatment plan to address it.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
No special diet is required, but you should drink enough water to maintain normal urine flow. Avoid alcohol or sugary drinks before the test to avoid interfering with 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