Glucose in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood drawn from a vein or drawn from your arm.
["Your blood sugar levels help monitor diabetes and other conditions affecting glucose metabolism."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49893-1
- Short code
- GH sp7 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH sp7 p 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test to check for diabetes, monitor blood sugar levels in people with diabetes, or evaluate conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). It can also help assess how well medications for blood sugar are working.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a fasting blood sugar panel. If fasting isn’t required, you can eat normally.
During the Test
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few seconds. The blood is then sent to a lab for testing.
After the Test
You can resume normal activities immediately. There may be a small bruise or redness at the injection site, but this usually fades within a day or two. If you experience excessive bleeding, dizziness, or signs of infection (like swelling or fever), contact your doctor.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High glucose levels may indicate diabetes, prediabetes, or other metabolic disorders. Repeatedly low glucose levels can signal hypoglycemia, which may require medical attention. Regular monitoring helps prevent long-term complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, or heart problems.
Short name
Serum/Plasma Glucose
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What does my test result mean?
Can I eat or drink before 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