Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF) Testing

Insulin-Like Growth Factor I (IGF-I)

Price: $75.49

IGF-1, also known as somatomedin-C, is a polypeptide hormone produced by the liver and other tissues in response to growth hormone release by the pituitary gland. IGF-1 effects growth promoting activity and glucose metabolism (insulin-like activity) in most human tissues. It is carried in blood bound to a carrier protein which prolongs its half-life; therefore making serum levels more constant than growth hormone while correlating with "average" circulating levels of growth hormone. In short, IGF-1 is a surrogate marker of growth hormone levels and activity. A significant deviation from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician. Includes: Insulin-Like Growth Factor I (IGF-I). Synonyms: IGF-1 SM-C/IGF-1 Somatomedin-C, Sulfation Factor Patient Instructions: This test may exhibit interference when sample is collected from a person who is consuming a supplement with a high dose of biotin (also termed as vitamin B7 or B8, vitamin H or coenzyme R). It is recommended to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of specimen.

What is an Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) Test?

An Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) test measures the amount of this critical hormone in a patient’s blood, a hormone whose primary job is to help regulate the effects of growth hormone (GH) in an individual’s body, and whose functions include the growth of tissue and bones. Disorders and diseases, that include pituitary tumors, can cause a patient’s body to manufacture too much growth hormone, and since this hormone is directly linked to IGF-1 measurements, it can be used to diagnose health issues related to having too much or little GH in a person’s body.

Who May Need an Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) Test?

Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) tests are commonly performed when an individual exhibits Acromegaly, a condition where too much growth hormone is being produced which results in abnormally large extremities (hands and feet) and facial bones in children and adults. It is also utilized to indicate the presence of Laron syndrome, a type of dwarfism, where growth hormone levels are deficient resulting in underdevelopment during the growing stages of individuals.

What Should I Expect from My Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) Test?

The Insulin-Like Growth Factor is obtained through a patient’s blood sample and requires no preparation by the patient. Though there are many things that can affect a patient’s Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF-1) results, abnormal levels may indicate the presence of conditions related to dwarfism, gigantism or Acromegaly in children or adults. Any abnormal results should be discussed with your physician or a specialist.