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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 plasma, a liquid part of your blood, to help assess your blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to check how your body processes sugar."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14137-4
Short code
Glucose 5.5h p 75 g Glc PO SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 5.5h p 75 g Glc PO 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 Matters

Glucose is your body’s primary energy source. High or low levels can signal conditions like diabetes, metabolic disorders, or other health issues. This test helps doctors monitor blood sugar trends, diagnose problems, or guide treatment plans.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a fasting glucose panel. Bring any medications you’re taking and let your provider know if you have questions.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The sample is processed to separate plasma, then analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to measure glucose concentration accurately.

Common Reasons for This Test

Doctors order this test to screen for diabetes, monitor blood sugar in people with diabetes, check for prediabetes, evaluate symptoms like excessive thirst or fatigue, or assess metabolic health during pregnancy or other 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

Plasma Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low result mean?
High plasma glucose may indicate diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic disorders. Low levels could signal hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), liver or kidney issues, or certain medications. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Does fasting affect this test?
Yes, if fasting is required (e.g., for a fasting glucose test), avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8–12 hours beforehand. Non-fasting glucose tests can still provide useful information but may not reflect overnight metabolic changes.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. People without diabetes may get a routine glucose test every few years, while those with diabetes or prediabetes may need testing every 3–6 months. Follow your doctor’s recommendations.
  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