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Glucose, 24-Hour Urinary Total

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

This test measures the total amount of glucose excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period, often used to assess how well your body handles glucose metabolism.

Quick summary

["A 24-hour urine glucose test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29412-4
Short code
Glucose 6h p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 6h 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 Matters

Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like diabetes, where your body struggles to control blood sugar levels properly. It also helps evaluate how well your kidneys filter glucose from your blood.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, typically starting after midnight one day and ending the same time the next day. Store the urine in a refrigerator or at room temperature in a clean container. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

The test measures the total glucose present in your urine, which reflects how much glucose your body is filtering out. This can indicate whether your kidneys are working normally or if there’s excess glucose in your bloodstream.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor diabetes, particularly in cases where blood glucose tests alone may not provide enough information. It can also help assess kidney function and detect conditions like glycosuria (glucose in urine).

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.

High urinary glucose levels may suggest diabetes, poor kidney function, or other metabolic disorders. Consistently low levels might indicate normal glucose metabolism or conditions like renal glycosuria, where kidneys naturally excrete more glucose. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urinary glucose level mean?
A high urinary glucose level often points to diabetes or impaired kidney function. It may also indicate poor blood sugar control if you already have diabetes. Your doctor will review your results alongside other factors, like blood glucose tests, to determine the cause and next steps.
How do I prepare for a 24-hour urine collection?
You’ll need to collect every drop of urine for 24 hours, including the first urine of the day. Drink plenty of water to help flush out glucose, but avoid excessive sugar-containing beverages. Use a clean container and keep the sample refrigerated until you return it to the lab.
Can I take medications that affect glucose levels before this test?
Some medications, like insulin or diabetes medications, can influence glucose levels. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking before the test. They may adjust your routine or timing to ensure accurate results.
  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