Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 (IGFBP3) Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of IGFBP3, a protein that helps regulate how insulin-like growth factors work in your body.
["IGFBP3 levels may help assess growth hormone function and metabolic health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57669-4
- Short code
- IGF BP3 20M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF BP3 20M 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have concerns about growth issues, metabolic disorders, or conditions linked to abnormal growth hormone activity. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for symptoms like slow growth in children, bone or muscle problems, or metabolic imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if your blood is collected in the morning. Bring any medications or supplements you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process usually takes just a few minutes. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your age, sex, and health status. Low levels may suggest issues with growth hormone signaling, while very high levels could indicate certain metabolic or hormonal conditions. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your overall health.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
IGFBP3 plays a key role in transporting and regulating IGFs, which influence growth, metabolism, and tissue repair. Abnormal levels may signal conditions like growth hormone deficiency, acromegaly, or metabolic disorders. It’s often used alongside other tests (e.g., IGF-1) to diagnose or monitor these conditions.
Short name
IGFBP3 Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Does this test require any special conditions, like fasting?
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