Skip to content

Insulin-like Growth Factor I (IGF-I) Serum Concentration

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

This test measures the level of IGF-I, a hormone produced by the liver that plays a key role in growth and development, especially in children and adolescents.

Quick summary

["IGF-I helps assess growth hormone function and potential growth disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110270-6
Short code
IGF-I Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
IGF-I Msmt SerPl
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 You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have concerns about slow growth in children, growth hormone deficiencies, or other conditions affecting hormone levels. It can also be used to monitor treatment responses in patients receiving growth hormone therapy.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not provided with specific reference ranges on this website. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your overall health, symptoms, and medical history.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to measure IGF-I levels in your serum.

What Are Common Uses?

Common reasons include diagnosing growth hormone deficiencies, monitoring growth in children, evaluating conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, and assessing metabolic health in adults.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IGF-I Serum

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal IGF-I level mean?
An abnormal result may signal an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation by your healthcare provider. They will discuss your results and next steps with you.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health needs, symptoms, and treatment plan. Follow-up tests may be scheduled periodically.
Can lifestyle changes affect IGF-I levels?
While diet and exercise can influence overall health, they may not directly alter IGF-I levels. Your doctor will provide personalized advice based on your situation.
  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