Testing for IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) is typically done via a blood test. IGF-1 is a hormone produced in the liver and is part of the body’s growth hormone system. IGF-1 testing is usually done to help diagnose problems with the pituitary gland, a gland at the base of the brain, and to diagnose certain types of cancer.
The doctor will take a blood sample from the patient and send it to a lab for analysis. The lab will measure the amount of IGF-1 in the blood sample. The normal range for IGF-1 is typically between 70 and 350 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). If the patient’s IGF-1 level is lower than normal, it could indicate a problem with the pituitary gland. If the IGF-1 level is higher than normal, it could indicate certain types of cancer.
The doctor may also order other tests to help diagnose any underlying conditions. These tests may include a full physical exam, imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, or a lumbar puncture to measure the pressure in the brain.
The doctor will use the results of the IGF-1 test along with the results of other tests to diagnose the patient’s condition. Treatment will depend on the underlying condition.