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Glucose in Serum (24-Hour Urine Collection)

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

This test measures how much glucose appears in your urine over a full day, helping assess how well your body manages blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["Helps identify conditions like diabetes or kidney issues affecting glucose excretion."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1635-2
Short code
GH pre 1 g/kg Glc PO SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH pre 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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used to monitor long-term glucose control in people with diabetes or kidney problems.

How the Test Works

You’ll collect all urine for a 24-hour period, typically starting after waking up and ending the same time the next day. The sample is then analyzed to measure total glucose excreted.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but drink plenty of water to ensure accurate results. Avoid taking glucose-lowering medications (if applicable) without consulting your doctor.

Common Conditions Monitored

High urine glucose levels may indicate diabetes, kidney dysfunction, or uncontrolled blood sugar. Low levels could suggest dehydration or certain metabolic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test provides insight into how your body processes glucose over time, helping doctors diagnose or manage conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or metabolic disorders. Elevated results may prompt further testing for blood sugar control.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urine glucose result mean?
A high result suggests your body may not regulate blood sugar well, which could signal diabetes or kidney issues. Follow-up may include blood glucose monitoring or additional tests.
Does diet affect urine glucose levels?
Diet can influence urine glucose, especially if you have diabetes. High-sugar foods may temporarily increase urine glucose, but the 24-hour test reflects overall metabolic patterns.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine frequency based on your health needs—typically every few months for diabetes management or as advised for kidney monitoring.
  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