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Glucose, Plasma or Serum Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood plasma or serum, which helps assess how your body uses energy and manages blood sugar levels.

Quick summary

["Glucose levels indicate whether your body is processing sugar efficiently or if there may be an underlying issue like diabetes or metabolic disorder."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14747-0
Short code
Glucose Plr-sCnc
Synonyms
Glucose Plr-sCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
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
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test to check for high or low blood sugar, monitor diabetes management, diagnose conditions like hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, or evaluate metabolic health before certain procedures.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, usually by a phlebotomist. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the lab.

Normal vs. Abnormal Results

While specific ranges vary by lab, glucose levels outside of typical ranges may signal potential health concerns. For example, persistently high levels could indicate diabetes, while very low levels might suggest hypoglycemia.

Common Uses and Conditions

This test is commonly used in diagnosing and managing diabetes, assessing fasting or post-meal glucose levels, and evaluating conditions affecting metabolism or insulin function.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: fluid

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

Glucose Level

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. People with diabetes may need regular testing, while others might only need it occasionally, such as during check-ups or before certain treatments.
What does a high or low glucose level mean?
High glucose levels may signal diabetes, poor insulin function, or other metabolic issues. Low glucose levels can cause symptoms like dizziness, shakiness, or confusion and may require immediate medical attention.
Can lifestyle changes affect my glucose test results?
Yes, diet, exercise, and hydration can influence blood sugar levels. Avoiding food or drink before the test (if instructed) helps ensure accurate results, but always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions.
  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