Glucose in Serum (24-hour Profile)
This test measures your blood glucose levels over a 24-hour period to help assess how your body manages sugar (glucose) throughout the day and night.
["Understanding your glucose control across time helps doctors diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 41899-6
- Short code
- Glucose Mtr Dev Serial #
- Synonyms
- Glucose Mtr Dev Serial #
- Category
- chemistry
- 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
- false
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of diabetes (like frequent urination, extreme thirst, or fatigue), if you’re at risk for diabetes (e.g., due to obesity, family history, or high blood pressure), or if you’re managing diabetes and need to check how well your treatment is working. It can also help evaluate conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or other metabolic disorders.
How the Test Works
Blood samples are collected at regular intervals (often every few hours) over 24 hours. The glucose levels in each sample are measured using an immunoassay or enzymatic method to detect the sugar in your blood.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to stay at the testing facility for the full 24 hours. Follow any specific instructions your doctor gives you, such as keeping a consistent diet, avoiding alcohol, and not skipping meals. You may be asked to wear comfortable clothing and bring a change of clothes for the night.
What to Expect During the Test
Blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm at scheduled times. You may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but the process is quick. You’ll be able to rest or move around as needed during the day.
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.
This test provides a detailed picture of your glucose levels over time, which can reveal patterns that standard single-point blood sugar tests might miss. For example, it can help identify whether you have reactive hypoglycemia (low blood sugar after eating) or impaired glucose tolerance. Results may also indicate how well your body responds to insulin or other treatments for diabetes.
Short name
24-Hour Glucose Profile
Frequently asked questions
How long does the 24-hour glucose test take?
What should I eat or drink during the test?
Will I need to take any special medications during 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