About the Human Growth Hormone Blood Test
This hormone is crucial for development during childhood and adolescence and plays important roles in maintaining tissues and organs throughout life.
The human growth hormone (hGH) blood test measures the level of growth hormone in your blood. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and is essential for growth, cell repair, and metabolism. This test helps diagnose various conditions related to abnormal hGH production, such as gigantism, acromegaly, and growth hormone deficiency.
High levels of growth hormone can indicate conditions like acromegaly or gigantism. Acromegaly occurs in adults and is characterised by the overgrowth of bones and tissues, particularly in the hands, feet, and face. Gigantism, on the other hand, occurs in children and leads to excessive growth and height due to an overproduction of GH. These conditions are typically caused by benign tumors on the pituitary gland known as adenomas.
Low levels of growth hormone can result in growth hormone deficiency, which can be present from birth (congenital) or develop later (acquired). In children, hGH deficiency leads to slowed growth and shorter stature than expected for their age and sex. In adults, it can cause changes in body composition, including increased body fat and decreased muscle mass, as well as reduced bone density, leading to a higher risk of fractures.
The implications of abnormal hGH levels extend beyond physical growth. In children, untreated GH deficiency can lead to delayed puberty and other developmental issues. For adults, both low and high hGH levels can impact overall health, affecting energy levels, cardiovascular health, and quality of life. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these conditions effectively.
1 Biomarker
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HORMONES
- Human Growth Hormone (hGH)
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UPGRADE
Need more biomarkers? Add this marker to the Female Hormones Blood Test or Male Hormones Blood Test