📌 What is the IGF-BP3 Test?
A blood test that measures IGF-BP3, the primary binding protein for Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1).
IGF-BP3 helps regulate IGF-1 availability, which plays a crucial role in growth and development.
Used to assess growth disorders, pituitary function, and nutritional status.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Evaluates growth hormone (GH) activity in children and adults.
✅ Helps diagnose growth hormone deficiency (GHD) or excess (acromegaly, gigantism).
✅ Monitors growth hormone therapy effectiveness.
✅ Assesses malnutrition, chronic illness, and hormonal imbalances.
📊 Normal Ranges (May vary by age, sex, and laboratory)
🔹 Children: 2.5 - 6.0 mg/L (varies by developmental stage)
🔹 Adults: 3.5 - 7.5 mg/L
🔹 High IGF-BP3 Levels: May indicate growth hormone excess (acromegaly, gigantism) or certain cancers.
🔹 Low IGF-BP3 Levels: May suggest growth hormone deficiency, malnutrition, or liver disease.
📝 Test Procedure
1️⃣ A blood sample is drawn from a vein.
2️⃣ The sample is analyzed using immunoassay techniques to measure IGF-BP3 levels.
3️⃣ Results help in diagnosing and managing growth-related disorders.
⚠️ Who Should Get Tested?
🔹 Children with abnormal growth patterns (too short or too tall for age).
🔹 Adults with suspected growth hormone disorders (acromegaly, GHD, pituitary dysfunction).
🔹 Individuals with malnutrition, chronic illness, or suspected hormonal imbalances.
✅ Why is This Test Important?
✔️ Helps in early diagnosis of growth and hormonal disorders.
✔️ Assists in monitoring growth hormone therapy.
✔️ Aids in detecting nutritional deficiencies and chronic diseases.