Growth hormone suppression test

Growth Hormone Suppression Test: everything you need to know

Growth hormone suppression test is a blood test that helps doctors to diagnose various medical conditions like acromegaly, an excessive production of growth hormones (GH) in the body, and other hormone-related issues. It is also used to find out how well the body is producing important hormones like insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1) and growth hormones.

Preparation for Growth Hormone Suppression Test

You generally do not need any special preparation for the growth hormone suppression test. You just need keep track of your food intake, regular activity and stress levels before the test.

Procedure for Growth Hormone Suppression Test

Your medical provider may recommend a growth hormone suppression test if you are suspected of having an excess of growth hormones in the body.

Before the test, your doctor will ask about your medical history and any medications you may be taking to determine if they may interfere with the test results.

Blood samples are taken from you, usually in the morning, and the levels of hormones are measured.

After your blood sample is taken, you may be asked to drink a liquid containing glucose which is usually glucose in water or sugar water. This helps to suppress the release of growth hormones.

Your blood samples are then tested to measure the levels of IG-1 and GH. Your doctor will then compare these levels to determine if you have a hormone imbalance.

Types of Growth Hormone Suppression Test

The glucagon stimulation test

The arginine test

The clonidine suppression test

The levodopa test

The insulin suppression test

Risks of Growth Hormone Suppression Test

Growth hormone suppression test is generally a safe procedure with no chances of allergic reactions if the correct procedure for the test is followed. Some of the potential risks may include light-headedness, nausea, and vomiting after the test.

Why, When, and Who Should take a Growth Hormone Suppression Test?

Growth hormone suppression test helps in the diagnosis of acromegaly, pituitary tumors, and other hormone-related problems. Your doctor may order this test if you are experiencing various symptoms such as excessive growth of body parts like nose, ears, and jaw, headaches, and fatigue. This test is usually recommended to adults and children who are suspected of having hormone imbalances.