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Serum Glucose Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood serum. Glucose is the primary energy source for your body’s cells.

Quick summary

["Check your blood sugar levels to manage energy, metabolism, and overall health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25673-5
Short code
Glucose 45M p Glc SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 45M p Glc 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 Matters

Glucose is essential for fueling your brain, muscles, and organs. Too little or too much can lead to health problems, such as fatigue, nerve damage, or long-term conditions like diabetes.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is drawn and analyzed using an enzymatic method to detect glucose levels. The result reflects your current blood sugar concentration in the serum portion of your blood.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your healthcare provider. You may eat and drink normally, but fasting tests (like for diabetes screening) would require fasting for 8–12 hours beforehand.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Your doctor will compare your result to your individual reference range, which may vary based on age, health status, and other factors.

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

Serum Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal glucose levels?
Abnormal glucose levels can result from diet (e.g., high sugar intake), physical activity, stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how frequently you need this test based on your health history, symptoms, and risk factors. For example, people with diabetes typically check glucose levels more often than those without.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
Unless your doctor specifies otherwise, you can eat and drink as usual. Some tests (like fasting glucose) require fasting, but this test does not.
  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