Comprehensive Growth Hormone Test - Growth Hormone (GH) Test

Growth hormone (GH) is a protein hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates growth in childhood by activating the production of insulin-like growth factors (such as IGF-1) and plays an important role in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates throughout life. It is secreted in pulses, particularly during deep sleep, so its blood levels can fluctuate throughout the day. It is often ordered along with IGF-1 to evaluate for both GH deficiency and excess.