Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Fasting for at least 12 hours is required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection. Rest for at least 30 minutes prior to collection.
- Turnaround: 2-4 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures the level of Human Growth Hormone (HGH), also known as Somatotropic Hormone (STH) or GH, circulating in your blood. GH is a peptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that influences bone growth, metabolism, red blood cell production, and muscle mass.
Because GH is released in pulses throughout the day, with higher levels typically occurring during deep sleep, a single measurement reflects one point in this pulsatile pattern. Interpreting GH levels often involves looking at results over time rather than relying on one isolated value.
Benefits
- Measures your circulating Human Growth Hormone level
- Supports evaluation of possible GH deficiency
- Supports evaluation of possible GH excess
- Helps assess pituitary gland function related to GH secretion
- Can support monitoring of GH-related treatment over time
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing decreased bone density
- Individuals experiencing persistent fatigue
- Individuals with adverse lipid changes, such as high cholesterol
- Individuals with reduced exercise tolerance
- Individuals with symptoms such as skin thickening, sweating, or joint pain
- Individuals with enlarged hands, feet, or facial bones
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this hormone test?
This test measures Human Growth Hormone (GH) in your blood. GH is secreted by the pituitary gland and plays a role in bone growth, metabolism, and muscle mass. Measuring it may help a healthcare provider evaluate pituitary function and assess signs of GH deficiency or excess. The test measures a single circulating hormone and does not diagnose any condition on its own.
2. Who may benefit from this test, and when should it be ordered?
This test may be appropriate for people experiencing possible signs of GH deficiency, such as decreased bone density, fatigue, adverse lipid changes, or reduced exercise tolerance. It may also be considered for signs of GH excess, including skin thickening, sweating, headaches, joint pain, or enlargement of the hands, feet, or facial bones. A healthcare provider may also order it to evaluate pituitary function or monitor GH levels over time as part of a broader medical evaluation.
3. How does this test differ from other hormone tests?
This test directly measures circulating GH rather than other pituitary hormones, hormone-binding proteins, or related endocrine markers. Because GH is released in pulses, a single measurement reflects its level at the time of collection rather than providing a complete picture of its secretion pattern.
4. How should I prepare for this test?
You must fast for at least 12 hours, stop consuming biotin at least 72 hours before collection, and rest for at least 30 minutes immediately before collection.
5. How quickly will I receive my results?
Results are typically available within 2–4 days. They may take longer because of weather, holidays, or laboratory delays.
6. How do I interpret the results?
Interpretation depends on factors such as your symptoms, medical history, and collection timing. Because a single result captures only one point in GH’s pulsatile pattern, it is often considered alongside other clinical information or repeated measurements. An abnormal result does not automatically confirm a hormonal condition, and a normal result does not automatically rule one out. Discuss your result with a qualified healthcare provider for a full interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
7. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Review results that fall outside the expected range with a qualified healthcare provider. Based on your individual health history, they can determine whether additional evaluation or testing is appropriate.
8. How often should I get tested?
Your healthcare provider should determine the appropriate testing frequency based on your individual symptoms and health history.
Pre test preparation
Fasting for at least 12 hours is required. Patients should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection. Resting is also required for at least 30 minutes prior to collection.
