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Glucose, Plasma (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood plasma, typically drawn from a vein. It helps monitor blood sugar levels, often used in diabetes management or metabolic assessments.

Quick summary

["A key check for blood sugar health, especially for diabetes or metabolic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40263-6
Short code
Glucose 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 30M p chal SerPl-mCnc
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 monitor conditions like diabetes, prediabetes, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), or to assess how your body processes glucose. It may also be used during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) or before certain surgeries.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small needle will be inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to standard reference ranges, though exact values can vary by lab. High levels may indicate diabetes or poor glucose control, while low levels could signal hypoglycemia or other metabolic issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose

This test is foundational for diagnosing diabetes (both type 1 and type 2), prediabetes, and hypoglycemia. It’s also used to evaluate how well medications or treatments are managing blood sugar levels over time.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Plasma Glucose Level

Frequently asked questions

Why might I need this test if I already have diabetes?
Even with diabetes, regular glucose monitoring helps track trends, adjust medications, and prevent complications. Some providers may recommend this test more frequently if you have unstable blood sugar or other health concerns.
Can fasting affect this test result?
Yes, fasting (not eating for 8+ hours) is often required for accurate results, especially if your test is part of a fasting glucose panel. Non-fasting results may be less reliable for diagnosing diabetes or managing blood sugar.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. People with diabetes may test every few months, while others may need it less often. Your provider will determine the best schedule for you.
  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