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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 serum or plasma. It helps assess your blood sugar levels and overall metabolic health.

Quick summary

["This test checks your blood sugar, important for managing diabetes and other conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53050-1
Short code
Glucose TPN-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose TPN-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

Your healthcare provider may order this test to monitor blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or other conditions affecting glucose metabolism. It can also be used to diagnose conditions like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken, usually from your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure the glucose concentration. The results help determine if your blood sugar is within a healthy range or if adjustments to your treatment plan are needed.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually required, but you may be asked to fast (not eat or drink) for a few hours before the test if it is part of a fasting blood sugar panel. If you are pregnant, have recent surgery, or are on certain medications, let your provider know.

What to Expect During the Test

The test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes only a few minutes. You can resume normal activities immediately afterward.

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/Plasma Glucose

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have diabetes, your provider may recommend testing every few months or annually to track your blood sugar trends. Others may need it less often or only as needed for diagnosis or monitoring.
What do my results mean?
Your results will be compared to standard reference ranges provided by your healthcare team. If your glucose levels are consistently outside the normal range, it may prompt further evaluation or changes in your treatment plan.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For routine glucose tests, you can usually eat and drink normally. However, if this test is part of a fasting blood sugar test, you’ll need to avoid food and liquids (except water) for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
  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