A biomarker of acromegaly is a biological indicator of the presence of the condition. The biomarker is typically used to diagnose acromegaly and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. It is usually a combination of hormones or proteins, including growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and/or other substances that are produced in higher levels in individuals with acromegaly.
Growth hormone is the primary biomarker for acromegaly, and it is typically elevated in individuals with the condition. GH levels are usually measured through a blood test, and levels that remain high after treatment may indicate that the acromegaly has not been successfully treated.
Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is another biomarker used to diagnose and monitor acromegaly. IGF-1 is typically elevated in individuals with acromegaly, and its levels are usually measured through a blood test as well. High levels of IGF-1 after treatment may indicate that the acromegaly has not been successfully treated.
In addition to GH and IGF-1, other biomarkers such as free insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) may also be used to diagnose and monitor acromegaly. These biomarkers may be measured through a blood test as well, and their levels may be used to monitor the treatment of acromegaly.
Overall, GH, IGF-1, IGFBP-3, and GIP are the primary biomarkers used for diagnosing and monitoring acromegaly. Elevated levels of these biomarkers in the blood can indicate the presence of acromegaly, and persistent high levels after treatment may indicate that the acromegaly has not been successfully treated.