Glucagon, Serum (Quantitative)
This blood test measures the amount of glucagon, a hormone produced by special cells in your pancreas. Glucagon helps regulate blood sugar levels by prompting your liver to release glucose.
["Glucagon helps control how your body uses sugar, so levels can indicate issues with blood sugar management."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100816-8
- Short code
- Glucagon sp6 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucagon sp6 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 Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), unexplained weight loss, or signs of a rare condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1). It could also be part of an evaluation for pancreatic disorders or metabolic diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your doctor specifies it. Bring your test results or any medications you’re taking to your appointment.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms and medical history. Elevated levels might suggest pancreatic tumors or other endocrine issues, while very low levels could indicate rare genetic disorders.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High glucagon levels may be associated with pancreatic tumors, diabetes complications, or certain metabolic syndromes. Low levels are less common but could relate to genetic disorders affecting hormone production.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Glucagon blood tests are primarily used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting pancreatic function or hormone regulation. They’re not typically part of routine screening but may be included in specialized evaluations for suspected endocrine or metabolic disorders.
Short name
Glucagon Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my glucagon test be ordered if I don’t have obvious symptoms?
Can fasting affect my glucagon test results?
What should I do if my glucagon test results are outside the expected range?
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