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Glucagon concentration in serum/plasma

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

This test measures the amount of glucagon, a hormone produced by the pancreas, in your blood. Glucagon helps regulate blood sugar levels by prompting the liver to release glucose.

Quick summary

["Assesses how well your body manages blood sugar in response to low glucose states."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58948-1
Short code
GH pre chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH pre chal 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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), unexplained weight loss, or conditions affecting hormone regulation. It could also be used to evaluate pancreatic function or diagnose rare metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before drawing blood. If you’re diabetic, follow your provider’s instructions regarding insulin or glucose medications.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will insert a needle into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized immunoassay method to measure glucagon concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard reference ranges for healthy individuals. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like hypoglycemia, pancreatic tumors, or other metabolic disorders requiring further medical evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum/plasma glucagon level

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Abnormal Result Indicate?
Low glucagon levels may suggest conditions like severe hypoglycemia, pancreatic insufficiency, or certain genetic disorders. High levels could indicate tumors (e.g., glucagonoma), chronic pancreatitis, or other pancreatic diseases.
How Might My Treatment Change?
If your results are abnormal, your provider may recommend additional tests (e.g., imaging, further hormone evaluations) or adjust medications (e.g., insulin, glucose supplements) based on the underlying cause.
Will I Need Follow-Up Tests?
Yes, if this test shows an abnormality, further evaluation may be needed to determine the exact cause and guide treatment. Your provider will discuss next steps with you.
  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