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Human Growth Hormone (GH) by Immunoassay (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your body’s level of growth hormone, a protein produced by your pituitary gland that plays a key role in growth, metabolism, and cell repair.

Quick summary

["Growth hormone levels help diagnose conditions related to growth, metabolism, or hormonal imbalances."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49777-6
Short code
HGV Ab Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
HGV Ab Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like slow growth in children, muscle weakness, or unusual fat distribution in adults. It could also be used to monitor treatment for conditions like growth hormone deficiency or acromegaly.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor specifies it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect and measure growth hormone levels in your serum.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). High or low levels may indicate underlying health issues, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated growth hormone levels may suggest conditions like acromegaly (overactive pituitary gland) or pituitary adenomas. Low levels can indicate growth hormone deficiency, especially in children or adults who haven’t reached full growth. Monitoring these levels helps guide treatment decisions, such as hormone replacement therapy.

Short name

GH Serum

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Check with your doctor or lab for specific instructions, but fasting may be required in some cases. If unsure, follow the general guideline of avoiding food/drink for 8–12 hours before testing.
Does this test require fasting?
Sometimes yes—your doctor may instruct fasting to ensure accurate results, especially if testing growth hormone levels dynamically (e.g., after stimulation or suppression tests). Always confirm with your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy