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Glucose, Plasma (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Method)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your plasma, the liquid part of blood that carries nutrients and waste products.

Quick summary

["Glucose levels help monitor blood sugar balance, especially for diabetes or metabolic health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
51597-3
Short code
Glucose 1h p 75 g Glc PO SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 1h p 75 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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for high or low blood sugar levels, diagnose diabetes, monitor treatment progress, or assess conditions like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. It’s often used in conjunction with other tests to track overall metabolic health.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and usually painless. If you’re fasting (not eating or drinking anything except water) for 8–12 hours before the test, follow your provider’s instructions to ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to general reference ranges for healthy adults, but individual needs may vary. High glucose levels may indicate diabetes or other metabolic disorders, while very low levels could signal conditions like severe hypoglycemia or adrenal insufficiency. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your health history and symptoms.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Factors like recent meals, medications (e.g., diabetes drugs), stress, or illness can influence glucose levels. Chronic conditions like kidney disease or liver problems may also impact test results. If you’re pregnant, have a chronic illness, or take certain medications, let your provider know—it may affect how the test is interpreted.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Plasma Glucose

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status. People with diabetes usually get this test regularly (e.g., every 3–6 months) to monitor blood sugar control. Others may need it less often unless symptoms or risk factors (e.g., obesity, family history) suggest it’s needed more often.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If fasting is required, avoid food and liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before the test. If not fasting, you can eat and drink normally, but your provider may still recommend timing adjustments for accuracy.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your results are high or low, your provider will review them with you and may recommend further testing or lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, or medication adjustments. Never interpret results alone—always discuss them with your healthcare team.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy