IGF-1 Blood Test

Service Description

IGF-1, or Insulin-like Growth Factor 1, is a hormone produced mainly by the liver in response to growth hormone released by the pituitary gland. It plays an important role in normal growth, bone health, muscle development, tissue repair and metabolism. Growth hormone levels rise and fall throughout the day, which can make a single growth hormone measurement difficult to interpret. IGF-1 remains more stable, making it a useful initial blood test for assessing overall growth hormone activity. This test may be helpful for adults who want to: • investigate possible growth hormone excess or deficiency • assess pituitary function alongside other hormone tests • investigate symptoms or physical changes associated with excessive growth hormone • monitor a previously diagnosed growth hormone disorder • monitor their response to growth hormone-related treatment under medical supervision Higher IGF-1 levels may be associated with excessive growth hormone production and can be seen in conditions such as acromegaly. Lower levels may be associated with growth hormone deficiency, although they can also occur for several other reasons. Important limitations: An IGF-1 result cannot diagnose a growth hormone or pituitary disorder on its own. IGF-1 levels vary considerably with age and should always be interpreted using the appropriate age-related laboratory reference range. Results can also be affected by pregnancy, nutritional status, liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders, poorly controlled diabetes and severe illness. A high or low result does not necessarily mean that a growth hormone disorder is present. If your result is outside the expected range, further assessment by your GP or an endocrinologist may be recommended. This can include other pituitary hormone tests, imaging or specialist growth hormone stimulation or suppression testing. This test is not a direct measurement of muscle-building potential, fitness or exercise recovery and should not be used by itself to guide the use of growth hormone or performance-enhancing medication. Turnaround Time: Most results are back within 1-2 working days. PLEASE NOTE: You are NOT required to fast before your Full Blood Count Blood Test. Don't delay in putting your health first, book your IGF-1 Blood Test with us today.