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Serum Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 (IGFBP3)

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

This test measures the concentration of a protein that helps regulate how your body uses growth factors, which play a role in cell growth and development.

Quick summary

["IGFBP3 helps balance growth hormone effects in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60000-7
Short code
IGF BP3 sp4 p chal SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
IGF BP3 sp4 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 order this test to evaluate conditions affecting growth hormone signaling, such as growth disorders in children, metabolic disorders, or to monitor treatment responses for conditions like acromegaly or hypopituitarism. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical scenarios.

What Does This Test Involve?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to obtain serum, which is then analyzed for IGFBP3 levels using a specialized immunoassay method.

What Does a Result Mean?

Interpretation of results depends on clinical context, including symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Elevated levels may suggest certain metabolic or hormonal imbalances, while lower levels could indicate deficiencies or other conditions affecting growth factor binding.

Common Conditions Monitored or Diagnosed With This Test

This test is less commonly used for routine clinical diagnosis but may be part of a broader evaluation for conditions linked to IGFBP3, such as growth hormone resistance, metabolic syndrome, or research studies on growth-related disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IGFBP3

Frequently asked questions

What does a high IGFBP3 level mean?
A high IGFBP3 level may suggest conditions such as metabolic syndrome, certain types of tumors, or other metabolic disturbances that affect protein binding and growth factor regulation. Your doctor will consider your overall health and other test results to interpret this result.
What does a low IGFBP3 level mean?
A low IGFBP3 level may be associated with growth hormone deficiencies, certain genetic disorders, or conditions affecting protein synthesis and regulation. This result should be evaluated within the context of your medical history and symptoms to determine the next steps.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends entirely on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. They will determine how often to check IGFBP3 levels based on your specific medical needs, symptoms, or treatment plan.
  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