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Glucose in Plasma (24-Hour Profile)

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

This test measures your blood sugar levels over a 24-hour period using plasma samples, often used to assess how your body manages glucose after meals or fasting.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose or monitor conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance by tracking blood sugar trends over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59157-8
Short code
Glucose pre Lac PO SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Glucose pre Lac PO SerPl-sCnc
Category
glucose
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
true
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 (such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight loss), if you have a family history of diabetes, or if you’re at risk due to other health conditions (like obesity or high blood pressure). It may also be used to evaluate how well medications like insulin or diabetes drugs are working.

How the Test Works

Blood samples are collected at different times (often before meals and 2 hours after eating) to measure glucose concentration in plasma. The results help create a profile of your blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Sample Collection and Preparation

You’ll have blood drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, at scheduled times. The samples are processed to separate plasma and measured for glucose levels using a sensitive analytical method.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a portion of the day (e.g., overnight) if your test includes fasting measurements. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any medications you’re currently taking.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

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 Plasma Glucose Profile

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Follow up with your healthcare provider to discuss the findings and next steps.
What do my results mean?
Your results will show glucose levels at each time point. High or low values at multiple times may signal diabetes, hypoglycemia, or other metabolic issues. Your provider will interpret the full profile with you.
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
If fasting samples are required, avoid food and liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before the first draw. For non-fasting samples, eat normally, but check with your provider for 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