Glucose in Interstitial Fluid (Quantitative Measurement)
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) found in the fluid surrounding your cells, which reflects your current blood sugar levels outside of blood vessels.
["This test helps monitor blood sugar levels in real-time for people with diabetes or those at risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105272-9
- Short code
- Glucose Interstitial fld-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose Interstitial fld-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?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to assess how well your body is managing glucose levels, especially if you have diabetes, experience frequent blood sugar fluctuations, or are undergoing treatment for conditions affecting metabolism. It can also be used to evaluate response to medications or lifestyle changes.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges here, as they vary by lab and method. Your provider will interpret the result in relation to your clinical situation and compare it to your baseline or treatment goals.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small sample of interstitial fluid is typically collected using a fine needle inserted into the skin (often near the forearm or thigh). The fluid is then analyzed to measure glucose concentration.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
High glucose levels in interstitial fluid may indicate uncontrolled diabetes, dehydration, stress, or certain medications. Low levels may suggest hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), severe illness, or certain metabolic disorders. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Interstitial Fluid Glucose
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What should I do if I have concerns about my results?
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