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Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 1 (IGFBP1) – Serum

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

This test measures the level of IGFBP1, a protein that helps regulate how insulin-like growth factors interact with cells in your body.

Quick summary

["IGFBP1 helps control growth and metabolism; levels may change with health conditions or medications."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12722-5
Short code
IGF BP1 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
IGF BP1 SerPl-mCnc
Category
hormone
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 they suspect conditions affecting growth factors, such as growth disorders, metabolic issues, or certain cancers. It could also be part of monitoring for hormonal imbalances or response to treatments like growth hormone therapy.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid smoking or strenuous activity for 30 minutes before the draw.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a brief pinch, but the process usually takes just a few minutes. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your medical history, symptoms, and other lab findings. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like liver disease, kidney problems, or hormonal disorders, but individual results vary widely.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IGFBP1

Frequently asked questions

What does IGFBP1 measure?
IGFBP1 measures the concentration of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 in your blood. This protein binds to growth factors, influencing how they affect cells, particularly in tissues related to growth, metabolism, and repair.
Can IGFBP1 levels change with diet or exercise?
Yes, lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and weight can influence IGFBP1 levels. For example, certain nutrients, medications, or chronic conditions may alter its concentration, though this is not always straightforward to predict.
Is IGFBP1 tested alone or as part of a larger panel?
IGFBP1 is often tested alone but may be included in broader panels assessing growth factors, metabolic health, or endocrine function, depending on clinical needs.
  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