Growth Hormone Test To Evaluate GH Production in the Body

A Growth Hormone Test measures Growth Hormone (GH) levels for diagnosing growth-related issues in both children and adults. Learn why it's important.

Growth Hormone Test

Here are the basic details of the Growth Hormone Test.

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

Growth Hormone Test Means

Growth Hormone Test measures the level of growth hormone in the blood.

• It helps diagnose growth-related issues in children and adults.
• Used to identify deficiencies or excesses of growth hormone.
• Requires fasting before the blood sample is taken.
• An essential tool in evaluating pituitary function and monitoring treatment effectiveness.

Growth Hormone Test Purpose

The purpose of the Growth Hormone Test is to:

• Assess growth hormone levels for diagnosing growth-related conditions.
• Detect GH deficiency or excess in children and adults.
• Monitor treatment effectiveness in GH-related disorders.
• Evaluate pituitary gland function.
• Essential for identifying growth-related issues in the endocrine system.

Growth Hormone Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the Growth Hormone Test.

Before Test

• Follow fasting instructions (typically 10-12 hours).
• Some children may need sex steroid treatment before testing.
• Medications like propranolol may be prescribed to enhance accuracy.

During Test

• Blood samples drawn at timed intervals.
• IV infusion may be used for stimulation or suppression testing.
• Medical supervision ensures safe and accurate results.

After Test

• No specific after-test measures usually required.
• Follow up with healthcare provider to discuss test results and next steps.
• Children on GH medication may need retesting after completing growth.

Growth Hormone Test Procedure

Here is the basic Growth Hormone Test Procedure.

• Patient fasts for 10-12 hours.
• Blood samples drawn at intervals.
• IV infusion may be used.
• Medical supervision ensures accuracy.
• No specific post-test measures.
• Results discussed with healthcare provider.
• Retesting may be required for some children.

Growth Hormone Test Result

• Interpret GH levels in conjunction with clinical symptoms.
• Elevated GH may indicate excess, while low levels suggest deficiency.
• Discuss results with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Growth Hormone Test Normal Range

Here is the normal range of the Growth Hormone Test.

Growth Hormone Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the Growth Hormone Test.

Growth Hormone Test High Levels

Here are some possible causes of high Growth Hormone levels:

High Growth Hormone levels are often caused by pituitary tumors, gigantism, acromegaly, or GH overuse.

Growth Hormone Test Low Levels

Here are some possible causes of low Growth Hormone levels:

Low Growth Hormone levels can result from pituitary dysfunction, head injuries, genetic factors, radiation/surgery, or idiopathic causes.

Specimen Requirements For Growth Hormone Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the Growth Hormone Test.

Growth Hormone Test is Safe?

Growth Hormone Test is generally safe.

• Administered by healthcare professionals.
• Standard medical procedures with minimal risks.
• Potential side effects are rare and usually mild.
• Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

When Do You Get Growth Hormone Test Results? 

• Results are typically available within a few days.
• Reporting time may vary depending on the laboratory.
• Discuss results with your healthcare provider after they are available.

Growth Hormone Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of Growth Hormone Test.

• Single GH measurement is not clinically useful.
• Results can vary based on timing within GH pulses.
• GH tests do not provide information on the cause of GH abnormalities.
• Interpretation depends on clinical context and additional testing.

Growth Hormone Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the Growth Hormone Test.

• Potential risk with IV infusion during GH stimulation tests.
• May experience mild discomfort during blood sample collection.
• Minimal risk of infection at the site of blood draw.
• Rarely, some individuals may experience fainting or dizziness.
• Bruising or soreness at the blood draw site is possible.

Doctor Recommendations After Growth Hormone Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the Growth Hormone Test.

Growth Hormone Test Price

Here are the estimated Growth Hormone Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, Growth Hormone Test measures GH levels to diagnose growth issues. Visit a specialist based on results for further evaluation. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• Growth Hormone - Wikipedia [1].
• Growth hormone test - UCSF [2].