Description of blood Analysis: 

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), also known as somatomedin C, is a hormone primarily produced by the liver in response to stimulation by Growth Hormone (GH). While GH is released in pulses throughout the day and night (making it difficult to measure accurately with a single blood draw), IGF-1 levels remain remarkably stable in the bloodstream. IGF-1 acts as the primary mediator of GH’s effects, promoting the growth of bones, cartilage, and soft tissues, as well as playing a crucial role in cellular DNA synthesis and muscle regeneration. In clinical diagnostics, IGF-1 is the most reliable “integrated” marker for evaluating the total daily secretion of growth hormone, providing a clear window into the body’s growth and metabolic status.

What does the analysis represent?

• Purpose: To quantify the hormone that reflects the average daily production of Growth Hormone and its effect on tissue growth.
• Primary Application: Diagnosing Growth Hormone deficiency or excess (Acromegaly/Gigantism), monitoring the effectiveness of GH treatment, and evaluating nutritional status.
• Method: Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA) or LC-MS/MS using a venous blood sample.

Recommendations for the Test (General)

• Timing: Can be performed at any time during the day due to its stable concentration.
• Fasting: 4–6 hours without food recommended); water permitted
• Rest: Avoid intense physical exertion for 24 hours prior to the test, as extreme exercise can temporarily influence the GH-IGF axis.
• Specific Rules: Refrain from alcohol consumption for 24 hours. Ensure you provide your exact age and gender, as IGF-1 reference ranges are highly dependent on these factors.

What can affect the results?

• Factors altering levels: Poor nutritional status, uncontrolled diabetes, and chronic liver or kidney disease can lower IGF-1 levels even if growth hormone production is normal.
• Conversely: High levels are naturally found during the pubertal growth spurt and can also be seen in cases of GH-secreting pituitary tumors.

When to take the test?

• Recommendations: This test is recommended for children with growth delays, adults with suspected GH deficiency (presenting as decreased bone density or muscle mass), or individuals showing signs of acromegaly (enlarged hands, feet, or facial features).
• Preparation: The test should be scheduled when the patient is in a stable nutritional state to ensure the results accurately reflect hormonal potential.

How to interpret the results?

• The interpretation of your laboratory results is the exclusive responsibility of a qualified physician.
• An IGF-1 value must be strictly compared to the specific reference range for the patient’s age and pubertal stage.
• Your doctor will evaluate the result to determine if the pituitary gland is producing an appropriate amount of Growth Hormone for your body’s needs.
• Only a professional medical review can integrate these findings with your clinical history to determine if dynamic stimulation or suppression tests are required.

Possible further investigations

• Growth Hormone (GH) Stimulation or Suppression Test: To confirm a diagnosis of deficiency or excess.
• Binding Proteins (IGFBP-3): To further assess the transport and bioavailability of IGF-1.
• MRI of the Pituitary Gland: To physically check for structural abnormalities if hormone levels are abnormal.
• Endocrinology Consultation: To develop a specialized plan for growth or metabolic management.

When does the next step make sense?

• If IGF-1 levels are found to be outside the age-appropriate range, the findings are reviewed by a physician to initiate specialized endocrine testing or imaging.
• All medical decisions are personalized based on the patient’s clinical symptoms and growth velocity.

👉 If necessary, you can discuss the analysis results with a specialist such as an endocrinologist (Doctors – TAMC).