Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 (IGFBP-3) Mass Concentration in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of IGFBP-3, a protein that helps regulate how insulin-like growth factors interact with cells in your body.
["IGFBP-3 levels may reflect your body’s growth factor balance and could be checked if you have concerns about growth, metabolism, or certain hormone-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57668-6
- Short code
- IGF BP3 10M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF BP3 10M p chal 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 Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to growth hormone or IGFBP-3, such as growth disorders in children, metabolic issues, or suspected pituitary disorders. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting hormone function.
What Does This Test Measure?
IGFBP-3 is a protein that binds to insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) in your blood. This test quantifies its concentration, which can help assess how IGFs are regulated and whether they’re available to affect tissue growth and metabolism.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then sent to a lab for testing. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, depending on your provider’s instructions.
What to Expect Before the Test
Prepare as directed by your healthcare provider, which may include fasting, avoiding certain medications, or limiting physical activity. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have recent injuries, let your provider know before testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IGFBP-3 Serum/Plasma Level
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal IGFBP-3 level mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect IGFBP-3 levels?
Is fasting required for this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy