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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 your body’s main energy source.

Quick summary

["Glucose levels help assess your blood sugar balance and overall health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50207-0
Short code
Glucose sp7 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose sp7 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like diabetes, high or low blood sugar, or to monitor existing health issues that affect glucose levels, such as kidney disease or liver problems.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may need to fast for 8–12 hours before the test, depending on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re taking and let them know if you have any dietary restrictions.

How the Test Is Performed

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure glucose concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Your provider will interpret the results in relation to your health status and symptoms.

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.

This test plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing diabetes, detecting hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and evaluating metabolic health. Abnormal results may signal underlying conditions requiring further medical evaluation.

Short name

Serum Glucose

Frequently asked questions

Will I feel any pain or discomfort?
You may feel a slight pinch or sting when the needle is inserted, but most people describe it as mild. The area may bruise slightly afterward.
How long will I need to wait for my results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
Follow your provider’s instructions strictly—typically, you should avoid food and liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before fasting tests like this one.
  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