Growth Hormone (GH) Test Sanovra Lab

GROWTH HORMONE (GH) TEST

₹200 ₹149
(Flat ₹51 OFF - Sanovra Lab)

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Report Time: Same Day 5:30 PM | Sample: Blood (Serum) | Test Code: BC112

Growth Hormone (GH), also known as Somatotropin, is a vital hormone produced by the Pituitary Gland in the brain. As the name suggests, it is responsible for physical growth in children. In adults, it plays a key role in metabolism, muscle mass maintenance, and energy levels.

Doctors order this test when they suspect a malfunction in the pituitary gland either producing too little hormone (causing dwarfism or fatigue) or too much (causing gigantism or acromegaly).

The Pulsatile Nature of GH (Important!)

Why one test is rarely enough: Growth Hormone is not released steadily. It comes in bursts or pulses, mostly during deep sleep and exercise. Because of this, a random blood test might show very low levels in a perfectly healthy person simply because they weren't having a pulse at that moment.

Therefore, doctors often interpret this test alongside another marker called IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), which is more stable, or they perform Stimulation Tests to provoke the pituitary gland.

Why is this Test Performed?

1. In Children (Short Stature)

If a child is significantly shorter than their peers or has stopped growing, this test helps identify Growth Hormone Deficiency. Early treatment with synthetic GH can help the child reach a normal height.

2. In Adults (Deficiency)

Adults need GH too. Deficiency can cause:

• ➤
  Loss of muscle mass and increased body fat (especially around the waist).
• ➤
  Severe fatigue and low energy.
• ➤
  Weak bones (Osteoporosis).

3. GH Excess (Acromegaly/Gigantism)

If the pituitary gland has a tumor (adenoma), it may pump out too much GH.
In Kids: Leads to Gigantism (excessive height).
In Adults: Leads to Acromegaly (bones in the face, hands, and feet get thicker and wider).

Interpreting Results

Normal ranges vary by age and sex. Higher levels are naturally seen in children during puberty.

Result	Possible Condition
Low Levels	GH Deficiency. Could be due to pituitary damage, genetics, or brain injury. (Note: A single low result must be confirmed with stimulation testing).
High Levels	GH Excess. Suggests a Pituitary Tumor (Adenoma). It can also be high due to stress, exercise, or recent eating.

Preparation & Procedure

• ✔
  Fasting: An overnight fast (8-10 hours) is usually required because food can suppress GH secretion.
• ✔
  Rest: Physical stress and exercise raise GH levels. It is recommended to rest for 30 minutes before the sample is taken.
• ✔
  Medications: Tell your doctor about any steroids or hormone pills you are taking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can this test help me grow taller?

The test itself is diagnostic. If you are diagnosed with a deficiency before your bone growth plates close (usually end of puberty), GH therapy can help increase height. Once puberty ends, GH cannot increase height.

Q2: Why is the test cheaper here?

This is a baseline screening test. If specialized stimulation tests (involving multiple samples over hours) are needed, the cost will be higher.

Q3: Does sleep affect the result?

Yes. The biggest pulse of Growth Hormone happens shortly after you fall into deep sleep. Poor sleep patterns can affect your natural GH levels.

Check Your Growth Potential

Whether for child growth or adult health, get accurate hormone levels with the Growth Hormone Test at Sanovra Lab.

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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a qualified Endocrinologist.