C-Peptide is useful in the evaluation of pancreatic beta cell function (e.g., helping distinguish type 1 from type 2 diabetes mellitus, or monitoring patients who have received islet cell or pancreatic transplants) and for determining the source of insulin in patients with hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia (e.g., distinguishing insulin-secreting tumors from exogenous insulin administration). It is also sometimes measured as an additional means (more resistant to hemolysis than is insulin itself) for evaluating glucose tolerance tests.
Significant deviations from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.
C-Peptide, Serum
Alternative Name(s):
C-Terminal Insulin
Patient should fast 12 hours prior to collection. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 12 hours before testing. Estimated turnaround for results is 3 business days. If confirmation testing is required, the estimated time may be extended.