Growth Hormone (Serum) – Mass Concentration, 24-Hour Profile
This test measures your body’s natural growth hormone levels over a 24-hour period to help diagnose conditions like growth hormone deficiency or excess.
["Assesses long-term hormone activity to guide treatment decisions for growth-related disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95850-4
- Short code
- GH 30M p Macimorelin Ser IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 30M p Macimorelin Ser IA-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order a 24-hour growth hormone profile if you have symptoms like slow growth in children, muscle weakness, or unexplained weight changes in adults. It helps determine whether your body produces enough growth hormone or if it’s working too much.
How the Test Works
Blood samples are collected at multiple times (typically every 20–30 minutes) over 24 hours to track hormone fluctuations. The results help identify patterns in hormone release, which can guide treatment plans.
Sample Collection Process
You’ll need to stay at a clinic or hospital for the full 24 hours. A healthcare provider will draw blood at scheduled intervals while you rest or go about normal activities. Avoid strenuous exercise or certain foods/drinks that may affect results.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond following your usual diet and activity routine. If you’re on medications, ask your doctor to confirm if any adjustments are needed before the test.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
24-Hour Growth Hormone Profile
Frequently asked questions
This test helps diagnose growth hormone deficiency (too little hormone) or acromegaly (too much hormone) by showing abnormal hormone levels over time. It’s also used to monitor treatment effectiveness for conditions like pituitary tumors or genetic disorders.
What are the typical symptoms that might lead to this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy