Clinical use
Diagnosis and monitoring treatment of acromegaly, investigation of short stature in children and differential diagnosis of spontaneous hypoglycaemia.
Background
IGF-1 (Insulin-Like Growth Factor) once called Somatomedin C, is a polypeptide protein hormone similar in molecular structure to insulin. It plays an important role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. IGF-1 levels can be measured in the blood in 10-1000 ng/ml amounts. As levels do not fluctuate greatly throughout the day for an individual person, IGF-1 is used by physicians as a screening test for growth hormone deficiency and excess.
Interpretation of IGF-1 levels is complicated by the wide normal ranges, and variations by age, sex and pubertal stage. Clinically significant conditions and changes may be masked by the wide normal ranges. Sequential management over time is often useful for the management of several types of pituitary disease, under-nutrition, and growth problems.
Patient preparation
None required
Specimen requirements
A Serum (SST or plain tube) sample is required for analysis.
Turnaround time
1 week
Referred test
Referred test