What is a normal level of IGF-1?
The median serum IGF-I level was 374.1 ng/ml at the age of 18. The serum IGF-I level decreased to 180.1 ng/ml at the age of 35–39, which is 48.1% of that at age 18, and further decreased to 92.7 ng/ml at ages older than 70, which is approximately 24.8% of that at age 18.
What does it mean if IGF-1 level is high?
Elevated IGF-1 and GH may indicate acromegaly in adults. Increased levels of GH and IGF-1 are normal during puberty and pregnancy; during the latter, serum IGF-1 increases on average almost 2-fold. Otherwise, increased levels are most frequently due to pituitary tumors (usually benign).
What causes IGF-1 elevation?
Levels of IGF-1 that are higher or lower than normal may also be caused by: Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid hormone levels. Liver disease. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
How do you treat high IGF?
The oral medications cabergoline and bromocriptine (Parlodel) may help lower levels of GH and IGF-1 in some people. These drugs may also help decrease tumor size. To treat acromegaly, these medications usually need to be taken at high doses, which can increase the risk of side effects.
How do you treat high IGF-1?
Is it possible to have a normal level of IGF-1?
A normal level of IGF-1 must be considered in context. Some people can have a GH deficiency and still have a normal IGF-1 level. Decreased IGF-1. If the IGF-1 level is decreased, then it is likely that there is a GH deficiency or an insensitivity to GH.
How are IGF-1 tests used to evaluate pituitary function?
Evaluate pituitary function. Less commonly, IGF-1 tests may be used to detect excess growth hormone and to help diagnose and monitor treatment of two rare conditions, acromegaly and gigantism. IGF-1 is a hormone that, along with growth hormone, helps promote normal bone and tissue growth and development.
How are IGF-1 tests used to diagnose growth hormone deficiency?
Identify growth hormone (GH) deficiency; it is not diagnostic of a GH deficiency but may be ordered along with GH stimulation tests to offer additional information. Less commonly, IGF-1 tests may be used to detect excess growth hormone and to help diagnose and monitor treatment of two rare conditions, acromegaly and gigantism.
Can a GH suppression test be used for IGF-1?
IGF-1 testing and a GH suppression test can be used to detect and monitor treatment of a GH-producing pituitary tumor. An anterior pituitary tumor is typically confirmed with imaging scans that help identify and locate the tumor.
