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Glucagon, Serum (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of glucagon, a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels, in your serum.

Quick summary

["Understanding your glucagon levels can help assess how your body manages blood sugar, especially in conditions like diabetes or pancreatic disorders."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59055-4
Short code
Glucagon sp3 p fast SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucagon sp3 p fast SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), unexplained weight loss, or signs of pancreatic issues. It may also be used to evaluate conditions affecting hormone regulation or metabolic health.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure glucagon levels in your serum. This is typically done using a sensitive immunoassay method to detect the hormone accurately.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges here, as they vary by lab and clinical context. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

What Are Common Conditions Linked to Glucagon Levels?

Abnormal glucagon levels can be associated with conditions like hypoglycemia, pancreatic tumors (such as glucagonoma), or metabolic disorders. High levels may indicate overproduction of glucagon, while low levels could suggest deficiencies or other pancreatic issues.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Glucagon Level

Frequently asked questions

What might cause false results or need retesting?
False results can occur due to recent food intake, certain medications (like insulin or diabetes medications), or pre-analytical errors (e.g., improper sample handling). If you suspect recent changes in medication, fasting status, or illness, inform your healthcare provider before the test.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab and healthcare provider’s workflow. Follow-up may be needed if results are outside expected ranges or if additional testing is required.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For this test, you may need to fast for a specified period before drawing blood, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions. Always follow your provider’s guidelines to ensure accurate results.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy