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Glucose in Serum or Plasma (24-Hour Urine Collection)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) excreted in your urine over a full day. It helps assess how well your body is managing glucose levels, especially in conditions like diabetes.

Quick summary

["Helps track sugar control in urine over 24 hours, useful for diabetes management."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109485-3
Short code
Glucose Msmt BldA
Synonyms
Glucose Msmt BldA
Category
glucose
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
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
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Your doctor may order this test to check if your kidneys are properly filtering glucose into your urine. High urine glucose can indicate poor blood sugar control, especially in diabetes, or other metabolic issues.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after midnight and ending the next midnight. Drink plenty of water to help flush out glucose, but avoid sugary drinks or foods. Follow your doctor’s specific instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

The collected urine sample is analyzed to measure the total glucose excreted over the day. The test may use methods like enzymatic or immunoassay techniques to detect glucose levels.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as the total amount of glucose excreted in grams or milligrams over 24 hours. Elevated levels may suggest diabetes or other conditions affecting glucose metabolism.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

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

24-Hour Urine Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal urine glucose levels?
Abnormal urine glucose levels can result from diabetes (high blood sugar), kidney problems (like diabetic nephropathy), pregnancy, or certain medications. Other factors, such as dehydration or stress, may also play a role.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition. For diabetes management, it may be part of routine check-ups or adjustments to treatment plans.
Can diet or exercise affect urine glucose levels?
Yes, diet and exercise can influence urine glucose levels. Eating a balanced diet low in sugar and exercising regularly may help reduce glucose excretion in urine, especially in people with diabetes.
  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