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Glucose in Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

["Knowing your glucose levels helps monitor blood sugar control, especially for diabetes or prediabetes."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35662-6
Short code
Glucose ?Tm Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose ?Tm Ur-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
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

Doctors order glucose tests to check if your blood sugar is too high or too low. It’s often used to diagnose diabetes, track treatment progress, or evaluate conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm or finger. The lab measures the glucose concentration using an automated method, such as enzymatic analysis, which detects glucose by its chemical reaction.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for most glucose tests, but if you’re fasting (not eating or drinking except water) for a specific glucose test (like fasting plasma glucose), follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Your doctor will interpret the results based on your medical history and symptoms. For example, higher-than-normal levels may indicate diabetes or insulin resistance.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

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

Glucose Level

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. People without diabetes may get a baseline test once, while those with diabetes usually check levels every few months or as directed by their doctor.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For standard glucose tests (not fasting), you can eat and drink normally. For fasting tests (like fasting plasma glucose), avoid food and liquids (except water) for at least 8–12 hours before the test.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your glucose levels are consistently high or low, your doctor may recommend further testing, lifestyle changes, or treatment adjustments. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider.
  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