Growth Hormone

... Why get tested?
To identify diseases and conditions caused by deficiencies and overproduction of growth hormone (GH), to evaluate pituitary function, and to monitor the effectiveness of GH treatment.

When to get tested?
As part of an evaluation of pituitary function. When you have symptoms of gigantism (in children) or acromegaly (in adults) suggesting excess GH production. When you have symptoms of slow growth, short stature, and delayed development (in children) or decreased bone density, reduced muscle strength, and increased lipids (in adults) suggesting insufficient GH production. During, and for extended periods after, treatment for GH abnormalities.

Sample required?
Usually several blood samples, drawn at timed intervals from veins in your arm. Sometimes a single sample of blood, drawn following a fast or after a period of strenuous exercise.
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Growth hormone Growth hormone is a polypeptide hormone synthesised and ...