Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Glucose (Mass Concentration) – 24-Hour Profile

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

This test measures your blood sugar levels over a 24-hour period using a sample of your serum or plasma. It helps track how your body responds to food, activity, and other factors over time.

Quick summary

["Understanding your glucose levels throughout the day can help manage diabetes or other conditions affecting blood sugar."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58865-7
Short code
GH sp43 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
GH sp43 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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used to check how well medications or lifestyle changes are controlling your blood sugar.

How the Test Works

During this test, blood is drawn at specific times (often before meals and after meals) over 24 hours. The samples are analyzed to measure glucose concentration in your serum or plasma using a specialized method, likely immunoassay or enzymatic techniques.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to follow a strict diet and activity schedule before the test. Typically, you’ll eat and drink normally but avoid sugary foods or drinks for a few hours before each blood draw. Your doctor or lab staff will guide you on the exact timing and preparation.

What to Expect During the Test

Blood samples will be taken at scheduled intervals, often in a clinic or at home with a healthcare provider’s supervision. You may feel slight discomfort from the needle, but it usually goes away quickly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Glucose Profile

Frequently asked questions

How long will I need to prepare for this test?
Preparation varies, but you’ll likely need to follow a specific diet and activity plan for several days before the test. Your healthcare provider will give you detailed instructions, often including fasting periods or timing around meals.
Will I need to take any special medications or supplements before the test?
Some medications or supplements may affect blood sugar levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs or supplements, to avoid interference with the test results.
What do my results mean?
Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your overall health and medical history. While glucose levels outside typical ranges can indicate diabetes or other conditions, individual results depend on many factors, including diet, activity, and medications.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

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