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Glucose in Serum (24-Hour Profile)

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

This test measures your blood glucose levels over a 24-hour period using serum samples, helping track how your body manages sugar over time.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess how well your body regulates blood sugar, useful for diabetes management or metabolic health evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47620-0
Short code
Glucose Stl-sCnc
Synonyms
Glucose Stl-sCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
stool
Container
Clean 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
CPT
82947
SNOMED
260395008
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or symptoms like frequent urination, excessive thirst, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used to evaluate how medications or conditions affect blood sugar levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a portion of the 24-hour period (often overnight) to ensure accurate results. Wear comfortable clothing for blood draws.

How the Test Is Performed

Small blood samples are collected from your arm at scheduled intervals (typically every 2–4 hours) using a needle. Serum is separated from the blood and analyzed for glucose concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results are usually reported as individual glucose values at each time point. Patterns in these values help identify trends, such as spikes or drops, that may indicate diabetes, insulin resistance, or other metabolic issues.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: stool

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 Glucose Monitoring

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Measure?
This test measures glucose concentration in your serum over 24 hours, providing a detailed picture of your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. Unlike single-point measurements, this profile helps detect subtle fluctuations that may not be caught by routine tests.
How Might My Results Affect My Treatment?
Your results may guide adjustments to diabetes medications, lifestyle changes (like diet or exercise), or monitoring frequency. High or low glucose patterns can signal the need for closer follow-up or treatment modifications.
Is This Test Painful or Risky?
Minor discomfort from blood draws is common, but risks are low. The test is generally safe, though rare complications (like bruising or infection) may occur. Follow-up with your provider if you experience unusual symptoms after testing.
  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