Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 3 (IGFBP3) – Serum Concentration
This blood test measures the level of IGFBP3, a protein that helps regulate how insulin-like growth factors interact with cells. It may be used to assess hormone balance, especially in conditions affecting growth or metabolism.
["IGFBP3 helps control growth and metabolism; levels can signal potential hormone-related health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59996-9
- Short code
- IGF BP3 sp8 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF BP3 sp8 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to abnormal hormone function, such as growth disorders, metabolic issues, or certain cancers. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like acromegaly, pituitary disorders, or genetic syndromes affecting growth factors.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your provider specifies it, but this is not always required. Bring any medications or supplements you’re taking, as they could affect results.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch or discomfort, but it typically lasts only a few seconds. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your provider based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. Abnormal levels may indicate imbalances in growth factors or related conditions, but they don’t stand alone for diagnosis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
IGFBP3 plays a key role in transporting and regulating insulin-like growth factors, which influence cell growth and metabolism. Low levels may suggest pituitary disorders (e.g., hypopituitarism) or conditions like McCune-Albright syndrome, while elevated levels could be linked to certain cancers or metabolic disorders. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
IGFBP3
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to prepare for fasting?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I take my medications before 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