Glucose in Urine (Qualitative, 24-Hour Collection)
This test checks for glucose (sugar) in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps identify whether your body is losing sugar through urine, which can happen with diabetes or other conditions.
["Assesses long-term sugar loss in urine, often linked to diabetes management."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 45205-2
- Short code
- Glucose sp4 p chal Ur Strip-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Glucose sp4 p chal Ur Strip-mCnc
- 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
- Method
- test-strip
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used to monitor diabetes or kidney function, especially if you have high blood sugar or signs of urinary tract issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours in a special container. Drink plenty of water to help flush out sugar, but avoid sugary drinks or foods that could skew results. Report any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they may affect the test.
What Happens During the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond the 24-hour urine collection. The sample is sent to a lab, where it’s tested for glucose presence using a chemical reaction (likely a colorimetric method). Results are qualitative—meaning they’re either positive or negative for glucose.
How Results Are Interpreted
A positive result means glucose was detected in your urine, which could indicate high blood sugar levels or kidney issues. A negative result means no glucose was found. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your overall health.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Glucose Test (24-hour)
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to fast before this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I take over-the-counter medications before 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