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Glucose, 24-Hour Urinary Excretion Profile (Quantitative)

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

This test measures how much glucose appears in your urine over a 24-hour period, helping assess kidney function and potential glucose metabolism issues.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify if your body is excreting excess glucose in urine, which may signal diabetes or kidney problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59796-3
Short code
Glucose 4h p chal SerPl-SCDiff
Synonyms
Glucose 4h p chal SerPl-SCDiff
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 doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or metabolic disorders. It helps track how well your body manages glucose over time, especially if you have symptoms like frequent urination or unexplained weight changes.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting and ending with the first morning urine. Store samples in a refrigerator and bring them to the lab on the same day. Follow any specific instructions your doctor provides, such as avoiding certain medications or foods that could affect results.

How the Test Works

Your urine is analyzed to measure the total amount of glucose excreted. This is done using a specialized laboratory method to detect glucose levels accurately, often through a chemical reaction or enzyme-based test.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-expected glucose in urine may indicate diabetes, kidney issues, or other metabolic problems. Lower-than-expected results might suggest your body absorbs glucose well, but results can vary based on individual health and test conditions.

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

24-Hour Urine Glucose Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urine glucose level mean?
A high urine glucose level often signals diabetes or impaired kidney function, as your body may not be able to reabsorb glucose properly. It can also indicate poor blood sugar control if you already have diabetes.
What does a normal urine glucose level mean?
A normal result suggests your body is managing glucose excretion efficiently, but it doesn’t rule out diabetes entirely. Some people with diabetes may still have low or normal urine glucose levels, especially if their blood sugar is well-controlled.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health status, symptoms, and medical history. Regular follow-ups may be recommended if you have diabetes or kidney concerns.
  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