Glucose in Serum or Plasma (24-hour Profile)
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood over a 24-hour period using a sample of your serum or plasma.
["This test helps track blood sugar levels over time, useful for managing conditions like diabetes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1637-8
- Short code
- GH pre Ins IV SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH pre Ins IV SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- hormone
- 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 to monitor how your body handles glucose, especially if you have diabetes or are at risk for conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). It can also help assess how well medications are working to control blood sugar levels.
How the Test Works
A sample of your blood is taken and analyzed to measure glucose concentration. The test may involve measuring multiple points over 24 hours to provide a comprehensive overview of your glucose levels throughout the day.
Sample Collection
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, and processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. You may be asked to follow specific instructions, such as fasting or avoiding certain foods, depending on the test’s purpose.
What to Expect Before the Test
If fasting is required, avoid eating or drinking anything except water for a specified period before the test. If not fasting, follow any dietary restrictions your provider has given you. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Glucose levels measured over 24 hours can reveal patterns of blood sugar fluctuations, which are critical for diagnosing diabetes, assessing insulin resistance, or evaluating metabolic health. Abnormal results may indicate poor glycemic control, metabolic syndrome, or other underlying health issues requiring further medical evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a normal range for this test mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect this 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