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Glucose, Serum (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of glucose, a type of sugar, in your blood serum. Glucose is the primary energy source for your body’s cells.

Quick summary

["Your blood sugar levels help determine how your body uses energy and manages conditions like diabetes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50216-1
Short code
Glucose sp6 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose sp6 SerPl-mCnc
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

Doctors may order a serum glucose test to check for high or low blood sugar levels. It’s often used to diagnose diabetes, monitor blood sugar control in people with diabetes, or assess conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re fasting, your doctor will let you know if you should avoid eating or drinking anything before the test.

What the Results Mean

The test result shows the concentration of glucose in your blood serum. While reference ranges vary by lab, results are often compared to your baseline or symptoms to guide further action.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps identify or manage conditions such as diabetes, prediabetes, or metabolic disorders. It can also be used to evaluate how well medications for blood sugar control are working.

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

Serum Glucose

Frequently asked questions

What causes my glucose levels to be tested?
Your doctor may test your glucose levels if you have symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes. It’s also used during routine check-ups, pregnancy, or if you have a family history of diabetes.
How long does it take to get my test results?
Results are typically available within a few days, depending on your lab and healthcare provider. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
If your doctor specifies fasting, avoid eating or drinking anything except water for 8–12 hours before the test. If no fasting is required, you can eat and drink normally.
  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