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Glucose in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood drawn from a vein or capillary site. It helps assess blood sugar levels, often used in diabetes management or monitoring metabolic health.

Quick summary

["A simple blood test to check your blood sugar levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96594-7
Short code
Glucose DBS-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose DBS-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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), or to check for metabolic issues. It can also be part of routine health screenings or before certain treatments.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm or, less commonly, from a finger prick. The blood sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure glucose concentration.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). While specific ranges vary by lab, higher or lower than expected levels may signal diabetes, prediabetes, or other health concerns.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is critical for diagnosing and managing diabetes, tracking blood sugar trends, and evaluating responses to treatments like insulin or medications. It can also help detect hypoglycemia or other metabolic disorders.

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/Plasma Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal glucose levels in this test?
Abnormal glucose levels can result from diet, physical activity, stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. If your results are outside the expected range, discuss them with your provider.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status. People with diabetes usually test every few months or as directed by their healthcare provider. Others may need testing less often or only if symptoms arise.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For standard serum/plasma glucose tests, you may fast for 8–12 hours before the test, but some labs may allow a small sip of water. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions 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