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Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein 5 (IGFBP-5) Concentration

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

This test measures the level of IGFBP-5, a protein that helps regulate how insulin-like growth factors affect cells, particularly in tissues like bones and muscles.

Quick summary

["IGFBP-5 helps balance growth and metabolism; levels may reflect bone health or metabolic function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25767-5
Short code
IGF sp5 p chal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
IGF sp5 p chal 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 order an IGFBP-5 test if they suspect conditions affecting growth, metabolism, or bone density. This could include evaluating growth disorders, metabolic syndrome, or monitoring treatment responses in conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

Results are not standardized across labs, so interpretation depends on your clinical context, symptoms, and other test results. Elevated or low levels may indicate underlying health concerns but aren’t diagnostic alone.

Common Conditions Linked to IGFBP-5 Levels

Changes in IGFBP-5 can be associated with growth hormone imbalances, metabolic disorders (like diabetes), or bone-related conditions. It may also be checked in research or specialized clinical scenarios.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IGFBP-5

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show if I have diabetes?
No, IGFBP-5 alone is not a diabetes diagnostic test. It may be checked in people with diabetes or metabolic concerns as part of a broader evaluation, but results won’t confirm or rule out diabetes without other tests.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Turnaround times vary by lab and urgency. Some results may be available within days, while others could take weeks. Your provider can clarify the expected timeline for your specific test.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For blood tests like this, fasting is usually not required unless specified by your provider. However, always follow your healthcare team’s instructions to avoid potential test interference.
  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