Insulin-like Growth Factor I (IGF-I) Serum/Plasma Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of IGF-I, a hormone produced by the liver in response to growth hormone from the pituitary gland, which plays a key role in growth, cell repair, and metabolism.
["IGF-I helps regulate growth and development, and levels can reflect overall health and hormonal balance."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2484-4
- Short code
- IGF-I SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF-I 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 doctor may recommend this test if you have concerns about growth issues in children, symptoms of hormonal imbalances (such as slow growth, delayed puberty, or short stature), or conditions affecting metabolism, bone health, or liver function. Adults might also have it checked for conditions like growth hormone deficiency or metabolic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if serum/plasma is required. If you’re taking certain medications, let your healthcare provider know. Avoid strenuous activity or caffeine before the draw.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using a specialized method to measure IGF-I levels accurately.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to reference ranges for your age and sex. Low levels may suggest growth hormone deficiency or other hormonal issues, while high levels could indicate liver disease, acromegaly, or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
IGF-I is critical for growth and development, particularly in children and adolescents. Abnormal levels can signal underlying conditions like pituitary disorders, liver disease, or metabolic syndromes. In adults, it may help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting growth, bone density, or metabolic health. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized insights.
Short name
IGF-I Level
Frequently asked questions
How often is this test typically done?
What can affect my IGF-I levels?
Do I need to do anything special after the 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