Notice: This test kit can only be added to the Hormonal Health™ - Blood Serum - Genova Test Kit (GD4000).
What is the purpose of this test?
The Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1)—Serum Add-On Test Kit measures the levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) in the bloodstream. IGF-1 is a hormone produced primarily in the liver in response to growth hormone (GH) stimulation. It plays a crucial role in regulating growth during childhood and adolescence and in various physiological processes throughout life, including cell growth, repair, and metabolism.
This test provides insights into an individual's growth hormone activity and overall endocrine function by assessing IGF-1 levels. Clinically, it is used to evaluate growth disorders, monitor growth hormone therapy effectiveness, assess pituitary function, and investigate conditions related to abnormal growth hormone secretion. Additionally, IGF-1 levels have been linked to various health outcomes, including bone health, muscle mass, metabolic disorders, and even cancer risk, making this test valuable in assessing overall health status and guiding personalized treatment strategies.
Benefits of the Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1) - Serum Add-On - Genova Test Kit:
- Evaluation of growth disorders: The Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1) - Serum Add-On - Genova Test Kit aids in assessing growth disorders by measuring IGF-1 levels, providing valuable information for diagnosing conditions such as growth hormone deficiency or excess.
- Monitoring growth hormone therapy: This test facilitates the monitoring of growth hormone therapy effectiveness by tracking changes in IGF-1 levels over time, helping healthcare providers adjust treatment plans as needed to optimize patient outcomes.
- Assessment of pituitary function: The test helps evaluate pituitary function by measuring IGF-1 levels, which is crucial for regulating growth hormone secretion and maintaining hormonal balance in the body.
- Investigation of abnormal growth hormone secretion: IGF-1 testing assists in investigating conditions related to abnormal growth hormone secretion, such as acromegaly or gigantism, by assessing the impact of excess growth hormone activity on IGF-1 levels.
- Insights into overall health status: IGF-1 levels have been associated with various health outcomes, including bone health, muscle mass, metabolic disorders, and cancer risk, providing valuable insights into an individual's overall health status and guiding personalized treatment strategies.
- Facilitation of personalized treatment plans: By providing information on growth hormone activity and overall endocrine function, the test aids healthcare providers in developing personalized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of patients with growth-related disorders or hormonal imbalances.
Preparation:
Ship collection kits Monday through Friday only. No fasting is required. Before beginning the test, wait at least four weeks from a colonoscopy or barium enema. Patients should also discontinue the use of PPIs, antiparasitics, antifungals, or probiotic supplements at least 2-4 weeks before collection. If possible, take medications or supplements after collection. Check with your physician before stopping any medications.
Test Results:
17 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
