Glucose (24-hour urinary collection)

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for signs of diabetes, kidney issues, or other metabolic problems. It helps determine if your body is properly processing glucose, especially if you have symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, typically starting after midnight and ending the same day the next morning. Use clean containers to store the urine, and discard the first morning urine. Label the containers clearly and return them to your provider’s office or lab on the scheduled day.

During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine over 24 hours. The lab will analyze the sample to measure glucose levels, often using a method like enzymatic or high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

What the Results Mean

Results are usually reported as the total amount of glucose excreted in urine over 24 hours. High levels may indicate diabetes, kidney problems, or other metabolic disorders. Low levels are less common but could suggest conditions like severe dehydration or certain hormonal imbalances.