Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein Complex (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the concentration of proteins that bind growth factors in your blood, which can influence how your body uses nutrients and grows.
["Understanding your IGFBP levels helps assess growth hormone function and metabolic health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25528-1
- Short code
- IGF SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- IGF SerPl-sCnc
- 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 growth hormone activity, such as growth issues in children, metabolic disorders, or suspected pituitary gland problems. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical evaluations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your test involves fasting-related measurements. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.
How the Test Works
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then analyzed to measure the proteins that bind growth factors, often using immunoassay techniques to detect and quantify these substances.
What the Results Mean
Results provide insight into your body’s hormone-binding environment, which can reflect how well growth factors (like IGF-1) are regulated. Elevated or low levels may indicate underlying conditions that require further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
IGFBP levels are important for diagnosing or monitoring conditions like growth hormone deficiency, acromegaly, or metabolic disorders. They also help assess how your body responds to treatments targeting growth factors. Abnormal results may prompt additional testing or referrals to endocrinologists or specialists.
Short name
IGFBP Complex
Frequently asked questions
What does a high IGFBP complex level mean?
What does a low IGFBP complex level mean?
Does diet affect IGFBP complex test results?
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