Growth Hormone, Serum
Use
The Growth Hormone, Serum test is useful for diagnosing acromegaly and assessing treatment efficacy when combined with results from glucose suppression test. It aids in diagnosing human growth hormone deficiency when interpreted alongside growth hormone stimulation test results. The test is not recommended for acromegaly screening and has limited value in evaluating growth hormone secretion in normal children.
Special Instructions
Fasting is required for 8 hours before specimen collection. Preferred specimen container is a serum gel tube, but a red top is acceptable. If not ordering electronically, complete an Oncology Test Request form and send it with the specimen.
Limitations
The test has limited value in assessing growth hormone secretion in normal children. It is not intended for use as a screen for acromegaly. Caution is advised as elevated levels may indicate gigantism or acromegaly, but confirmation with stimulation and suppression testing is necessary. Single measurements are of limited diagnostic value due to the pulsatile secretion of growth hormone. Rare interference may occur due to antibodies causing HAMA or heterophile antibody interference.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoenzymatic Assay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2963-7
- 2963-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Serum gel, Red top
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial. If multiple specimens are collected, submit each vial under a separate order. Label specimens appropriately with the corresponding collection times.
Patient Preparation
Fasting: 8 hours, required
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated (preferred) for 7 days or Frozen for 90 days
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |