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Growth Hormone

Also known as: GH; Human Growth Hormone; HGH; Somatotropin
Formal name: Growth Hormone
Related tests: IGF-1 (Insulin-like growth factor 1, also called Somatomedin C); GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone); Glucose Tolerance Test; Cortisol; ACTH; TSH; Glucose; Prolactin

At a Glance

Why Get Tested?

To identify diseases and conditions caused by either a deficiency or 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; symptoms suggestive of gigantism (in children) or acromegaly (in adults) may be a result of excess GH production. Slow growth in stature, delayed maturational development (in children), decreased bone density and/or muscle strength, and increased lipids (in adults) all could be related to insufficient GH production.

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

Test Preparation Needed?

Follow any instructions you are given, such as to fast, in order to prepare for this test.