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Glucose, 24-Hour Urinary Collection (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the total amount of glucose found in your urine over a full day, helping assess how well your body is handling glucose metabolism.

Quick summary

["This test helps track long-term glucose control, often used in managing diabetes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18342-6
Short code
Glucose 3h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 3h 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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have diabetes or are at risk for it. It helps monitor how well your body is processing glucose over time, especially if you take medications or insulin. This test can also be used to check for conditions like kidney problems or other metabolic disorders that may affect glucose excretion.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after you wake up and ending the next morning. Drink plenty of water to help flush out glucose naturally. Avoid taking any glucose-containing medications or supplements unless instructed otherwise.

During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine in a sterile container at home. A healthcare provider will review the sample to determine the total glucose mass excreted in your urine over the day.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by comparing the total glucose excreted to expected values for healthy individuals. Elevated levels may indicate poor glucose control, while very low levels could suggest conditions like diabetes or kidney issues that affect urine glucose processing.

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

None

Frequently asked questions

What questions might you have about this test?
This test is primarily used to evaluate long-term glucose metabolism in people with diabetes. It helps track how well your body is managing glucose levels over time, especially if you’re on insulin or oral medications. It’s not typically used for routine screening in healthy individuals.
How often is this test recommended?
The frequency depends on your medical condition. For people with diabetes, it may be done annually or more often if your glucose levels are unstable or if you’re adjusting treatments. Your healthcare provider will determine the best schedule for you.
Can I eat or drink anything before collecting my urine?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally, but avoid taking glucose-containing medications or supplements unless your provider has given specific instructions. Drink water to help your body naturally process glucose, but don’t restrict fluids unless advised.
  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