Glucose in Serum (24-Hour Average)
This test measures the average blood glucose levels over the past 24 hours, often used to assess long-term blood sugar control, particularly in people with diabetes.
["This test helps track how well your body manages blood sugar over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109529-8
- Short code
- Glucose Msmt BldV
- Synonyms
- Glucose Msmt BldV
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate long-term blood sugar management, especially if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing it. It provides insight into how consistently your blood glucose levels stay within a healthy range over a full day, unlike a single blood glucose measurement.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting) and then analyzed to determine the average glucose concentration over 24 hours.
What Does This Test Tell You?
The result reflects your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar over time. High values may indicate poor control of diabetes, while lower values might suggest hypoglycemia or other metabolic issues. This test is not a single snapshot but a summary of your glucose trends.
What Are Common Results and Next Steps?
Results are not provided in absolute numbers but are interpreted relative to your medical history and other test results. Your doctor will discuss findings with you to determine if adjustments to medication, diet, or lifestyle are needed.
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.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing and managing diabetes, prediabetes, and related conditions. It helps identify patterns of blood sugar control that a single test cannot reveal, guiding personalized treatment plans to improve long-term health outcomes.
Short name
24-Hour Average Glucose
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor request this test?
How often should I expect this test?
Can I prepare for this 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