Glucose, Serum (High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography)
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood drawn from a vein in your arm. It helps doctors check how well your body is using sugar for energy.
["This test helps monitor blood sugar levels, often used in diabetes management or during pregnancy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14754-6
- Short code
- Glucose 1h p 50 g Glc PO SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose 1h p 50 g Glc PO SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- glucose
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 70
- Ref high
- 100
- Critical range
- 50 N/A – 400 N/A
- Fasting
- true
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82947
- SNOMED
- 260395008
- 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 to diagnose or manage conditions like diabetes, check for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), or assess how your body processes glucose during pregnancy or illness. It can also help evaluate metabolic health or monitor treatment responses.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test (if fasting is required), but your provider will confirm. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results. Avoid smoking or chewing gum right before the draw, as it can temporarily alter blood sugar levels.
During the Test
A small needle will be inserted into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few seconds. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for glucose measurement using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a precise method for accurate results.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, high or low values may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation by your doctor.
Reference range
Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A
Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Glucose levels outside normal ranges can indicate diabetes (high levels), hypoglycemia (low levels), or other metabolic disorders. Chronic high glucose may damage blood vessels over time, increasing risks for heart disease, nerve damage, or kidney problems. Regular monitoring helps prevent complications and guides treatment adjustments.
Short name
Glucose Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Does this test hurt?
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