Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 (IGFBP3) Serum Concentration
This test measures the amount of IGFBP3, a protein that helps regulate how insulin-like growth factors affect cells in your body. It may be checked to assess hormone balance, growth disorders, or metabolic health.
["IGFBP3 helps control growth and metabolism; low or high levels may signal underlying health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 58832-7
- Short code
- IGF BP3 45M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF BP3 45M 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order an IGFBP3 test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to growth hormone imbalances, such as growth issues in children, metabolic disorders, or certain cancers. It may also be used in research or monitoring certain treatments.
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 serum/plasma is the specimen. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood will be sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are not typically provided in absolute numbers for this test, as reference ranges can vary by lab and clinical context. Instead, your provider will interpret the result in relation to your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
IGFBP3 plays a role in insulin-like growth factor signaling, which influences growth, metabolism, and cell repair. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like acromegaly, growth hormone deficiencies, or metabolic disorders. Your provider will use the result alongside other factors to guide diagnosis or treatment planning.
Short name
IGFBP3
Frequently asked questions
What does an IGFBP3 test measure?
Can fasting affect IGFBP3 test results?
How long does it take to get IGFBP3 test 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy