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Glucose in Urine (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) present in your urine, often checked to detect or monitor conditions like diabetes or kidney issues.

Quick summary

["Urine glucose testing helps identify sugar in your urine, linked to blood sugar control and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108027-4
Short code
Glucose Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Glucose Msmt Ur
Category
glucose
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
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
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
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 check for diabetes, kidney problems, or other metabolic conditions. It can also help monitor how well your body is handling sugar after treatments like insulin.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely collect a urine sample in a clean container at home or at a lab. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise.

How the Test Works

The test uses a chemical method (turbidimetry) to detect glucose in your urine. A positive result means sugar is present, which may indicate high blood sugar levels or kidney issues.

What the Results Mean

A positive result (glucose detected) suggests your body may not be processing sugar properly, possibly due to diabetes or kidney problems. A negative result means no glucose was found in your urine.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

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

Urine Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What causes a positive urine glucose test?
A positive urine glucose test is most commonly caused by diabetes (either type 1 or type 2), where your body struggles to regulate blood sugar. Other rare causes may include kidney issues or certain medications.
How does urine glucose differ from blood glucose?
Urine glucose measures sugar that has leaked into your urine due to high blood sugar levels, while blood glucose measures the sugar directly in your bloodstream. Blood tests are more precise for diagnosing diabetes.
Can diet affect urine glucose results?
Yes, eating foods high in sugar or refined carbs can temporarily increase blood sugar, potentially leading to glucose in urine. However, chronic high blood sugar is the primary driver of persistent urine glucose.
  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