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IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) Test Test

This test measures IGF-1, a hormone that controls the effects of growth hormone (GH) in your body. It helps detect and monitor growth hormone disorders.

What this test measures

This test measures the amount of IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) in your blood. IGF-1 manages the effects of growth hormone (GH) in your body. Together, IGF-1 and GH promote normal growth of bones and tissues.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

Higher than normal levels of IGF-1 may mean gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults. Gigantism and acromegaly are most often caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland.

Lower-than-normal results

Lower than normal levels of IGF-1 in a child probably mean they have a GH deficiency or insensitivity to GH. In adults, lower than normal IGF-1 may be due to a normal age-related decrease or other conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is IGF-1?

IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) is a hormone that manages the effects of growth hormone (GH) in your body. It promotes normal growth of bones and tissues.

Why is IGF-1 measured instead of GH?

GH levels change throughout the day depending on diet and activity, but IGF-1 levels are more stable. So measuring IGF-1 is a reliable way to track GH in the body.

What does a high IGF-1 level mean?

Higher than normal levels of IGF-1 may mean gigantism in children or acromegaly in adults. These are most often caused by a tumor in the pituitary gland.

What does a low IGF-1 level mean in children?

Lower than normal levels of IGF-1 in a child probably mean they have a growth hormone deficiency or insensitivity to growth hormone.

Can low IGF-1 in adults be normal?

Yes, lower than normal IGF-1 in adults may be due to a normal age-related decrease in the hormone or other conditions. More tests may be needed.

Related lab tests

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.