Insulin, Dried Blood Spot — Immunoassay, Concentration
Measures insulin in a dried blood spot using an immunoassay. The result is interpreted with blood glucose, symptoms, medications, and the time of collection.
["This test measures the amount of insulin in a small blood sample to help evaluate how the body regulates blood glucose."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106158-9
- Short code
- Insulin DBS IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Insulin DBS IA-aCnc
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.6
- Ref high
- 24.9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 83525
- SNOMED
- 413618004
- 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
What is this test?
This test measures insulin, a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells for energy. The sample is collected as a dried blood spot and tested using an immunoassay.
Why might I need this test?
An insulin measurement may be used to investigate unexplained high or low glucose, symptoms related to blood sugar, or the effects of diabetes medicines. It is most useful when interpreted with a glucose measurement taken at the same time.
How is the test performed?
A small prick of blood is taken from the fingertip or heel, depending on age and the collection method. The blood is placed on a special card, allowed to dry, and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting may or may not be required, depending on the reason for testing and the timing of any glucose or insulin treatment. Follow the instructions from your healthcare professional and record the date, time, last meal, and relevant medication doses if requested.
Reference range
Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An insulin result above the expected range may occur after a recent meal, with stress or infection, or when the body is resistant to insulin. A lower result may reflect the effect of insulin or diabetes medication, prolonged fasting, or less commonly, reduced insulin production. Results must be interpreted alongside glucose levels, symptoms, medications, and collection timing.
Short name
Insulin (Dried Blood Spot)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this insulin test?
Why is my insulin result reported with a glucose result?
Can this test diagnose diabetes?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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