Glucose in fasting state measured by enzymatic method in serum/plasma
This test checks your blood sugar level after you’ve gone without food for at least 8 hours. It helps doctors understand how your body manages glucose, which is important for energy and overall health.
["A fasting glucose test helps assess your risk for diabetes or other blood sugar-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53084-0
- Short code
- Glucose Fld.NB-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose Fld.NB-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 Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order a fasting glucose test to diagnose conditions like diabetes, prediabetes, or to monitor existing diabetes management. It can also help evaluate symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight changes.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for at least 8 hours before the test. Your doctor or lab staff will provide specific instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed to measure glucose concentration using an enzymatic method, which detects glucose levels accurately.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, higher or lower than expected levels may signal potential health concerns that need further evaluation.
Reference range
Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A
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 fasting glucose levels (often above normal ranges) can indicate diabetes or insulin resistance. Consistently low levels may suggest hypoglycemia or other metabolic issues. Regular monitoring helps manage these conditions effectively and prevent complications.
Short name
Fasting Glucose
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my fasting glucose results?
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
What if I take diabetes medication before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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