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 interact with cells in your body.
["IGFBP3 helps balance growth signals in your body and may influence metabolism and tissue repair."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60003-1
- Short code
- IGF BP3 BS SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF BP3 BS 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 recommend this test if they suspect conditions affecting growth factors, such as growth hormone resistance, metabolic disorders, or certain cancers. It could also be part of monitoring for conditions like liver disease or kidney function.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your test involves serum or plasma. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for testing.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may suggest underlying health concerns, but they don’t diagnose a specific condition alone.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
IGFBP3 plays a role in regulating growth and metabolism. Low levels may indicate conditions like liver disease or growth hormone deficiency, while high levels could be associated with certain cancers or metabolic disorders. Your provider will use these results in the context of your overall health to guide further evaluation.
Short name
IGFBP3 Level
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal IGFBP3 result mean?
How often should I get this test?
Can lifestyle changes affect IGFBP3 levels?
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