Growth Hormone, Eight Specimens
Use
The Growth Hormone, Eight Specimens test is primarily used to assess growth hormone levels by taking multiple specimens at different time points following a stimulation event. This is typically used for diagnosing disorders related to growth hormone such as growth hormone deficiency or excess where dynamic testing is required to observe how the growth hormone level changes in response to stimulation or suppression. It helps in evaluating the pituitary gland function and can aid in diagnosing pituitary disorders.
Special Instructions
This panel requires sequential sampling, involving the collection of an initial baseline tube followed by administration of a treatment such as a drug or glucola, and subsequent collection of additional tubes post-administration. It is critical to follow the specific procedure for sequential sampling, and this test should not be used if the patient does not receive a treatment or if the series collection rationale is unclear. Clinicians must be contacted before collecting the series to determine the reason for the order. Patients taking high-dose biotin supplements should discontinue use at least 72 hours prior to sample collection due to potential assay interference.
Limitations
This test may exhibit interference due to high-dose biotin consumption by the patient, which can lead to inaccurate results. It is important to ensure discontinuation of biotin supplements 72 hours prior to the test. Additionally, various pre-analytical and analytical factors, such as improper timing of sample collection and improper handling of specimens, may affect the accuracy and reliability of the test results. Results from each tube are used to monitor dynamic changes and should be interpreted cautiously within the context of the patient's clinical picture.
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 12253-1
- 46963-5
- 49892-3
- 27888-7
- 27889-5
- 27881-2
- 27890-3
- 27328-4
- 49893-1
- 12253-1
- 49892-3
- 27888-7
- 27889-5
- 27881-2
- 27890-3
- 27328-4
- 49893-1
Result Turnaround Time
3-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Multiple tubes required: one for baseline and subsequent tubes post-treatment
Collection Instructions
Collect initial baseline specimen. Administer treatment (e.g., drug/pill or glucola) and collect additional specimens at specified intervals.
Patient Preparation
Discontinue biotin supplements 72 hours before testing.
Causes for Rejection
Improperly timed collection or failure to follow sequential sampling protocol