Glucose in Serum (Fasting or Random) – Glucose Level Measurement
This test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood, which helps assess your blood sugar levels.
["Glucose levels indicate how your body uses energy and can help manage diabetes or other metabolic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35287-2
- Short code
- T gondii HS Ab Ser Aggl-aCnc
- Synonyms
- T gondii HS Ab Ser Aggl-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- aggl
- 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
Doctors order glucose tests to check for conditions like diabetes, monitor blood sugar levels during treatment, or evaluate symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used before surgery or during pregnancy to assess overall health.
What to Expect Before the Test
For fasting glucose tests, you’ll need to avoid eating or drinking (except water) for at least 8–12 hours before the test. Random glucose tests can be done at any time. Bring any medications you’re currently taking and let your healthcare provider know about recent illnesses or changes in your health.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a quick pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine whether your blood sugar is within a healthy range, too high (hyperglycemia), or too low (hypoglycemia). Your doctor will compare your results to your medical history and other tests to diagnose or guide treatment for conditions like diabetes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormally high glucose levels may indicate diabetes, prediabetes, or other endocrine disorders. Persistently low levels can cause dizziness, fatigue, or confusion. Regular monitoring is critical for managing chronic conditions and preventing long-term complications like nerve damage or heart disease.
Short name
Glucose
Frequently asked questions
What causes glucose levels to fluctuate?
How often should I get a glucose test?
Can lifestyle changes impact glucose test results?
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