Insulin-like growth factor 1, or IGF-1, is a hormone with structural similarities to insulin. It plays a significant role in regulating growth and development in the human body. IGF-1 is primarily produced in the liver in response to the release of growth hormone by the pituitary gland.

Together with growth hormone, IGF-1 promotes the growth of bones, muscles, and other tissues, particularly during childhood and adolescence. In adults, it plays a role in maintaining muscle and bone mass, tissue repair, and overall health. Deficiencies or excesses of IGF-1 can lead to growth disorders in children and adults.

Lower than normal levels of IGF-1 may indicate a growth hormone deficiency or insensitivity to growth hormone (Laron syndrome). Higher than normal levels of IGF-1 may indicate gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults. These conditions, characterized by excessive growth hormone, are most often caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland.

Who should take this test?

This test is typically recommended for individuals with suspected growth disorders, such as children who are not growing at the expected rate or adults exhibiting symptoms of acromegaly.

What is included in this test?

This blood test measures:

• Insulin-like growth factor 1

How will taking this test benefit me?

IGF-1 testing helps healthcare providers diagnose growth hormone disorders, which can then be managed appropriately. For children, early diagnosis of growth hormone deficiencies is essential to ensuring healthy growth and development.