Concerned about growth issues, experiencing muscle weakness, or suspected growth hormone problems and want assessment of growth hormone function?
The IGF-1 Blood Test measures insulin-like growth factor 1, a hormone influenced by growth hormone that plays a role in growth, metabolism, and muscle repair. Abnormal levels may be linked to growth disorders, metabolic problems, or hormone imbalances, while healthy levels support strength, energy, and development.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
The IGF-1 test measures a hormone that acts like your body's "growth and repair manager," coordinating everything from muscle maintenance to bone strength throughout your life. Think of IGF-1 as growth hormone's faithful messenger – when your brain releases growth hormone, your liver responds by producing IGF-1, which then travels throughout your body ensuring tissues grow properly, muscles stay strong, and metabolism runs smoothly.
This test is particularly valuable because IGF-1 levels reveal whether your growth hormone system is working properly, helping doctors identify issues like growth delays in children, unexplained muscle weakness or fatigue in adults, or conditions where the body produces too much growth hormone. Whether you're concerned about a child's growth pattern, experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue and muscle loss, or monitoring treatment for hormone-related conditions, IGF-1 testing provides crucial insights into your body's ability to maintain and repair itself effectively.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
You may benefit from the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) Blood Test
Essential for individuals with growth disorders, muscle wasting, pituitary concerns, or anyone needing comprehensive growth hormone and metabolic assessment.
Feeling tired all the time
Loss of muscle mass or sarcopenia
Age-related muscle loss
Anti-aging health assessment
Difficulty growing facial hair (men)
How to prepare
No special preparation required. Inform healthcare provider of all medications, growth hormone therapy, and any factors that might affect IGF-1 levels or interpretation.
Understanding results
Results show IGF-1 levels compared to age-appropriate normal ranges. Abnormal levels may indicate growth hormone dysfunction requiring further evaluation and specialized treatment.
After the test
Address abnormal IGF-1 through growth hormone therapy for deficiency, treatment of underlying pituitary conditions, and regular monitoring. Work with endocrinologists for hormone disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
IGF-1 is a hormone produced by the liver in response to growth hormone; it promotes growth, tissue repair, and metabolic regulation.
Low levels may indicate growth hormone deficiency; high levels may suggest growth hormone excess or acromegaly requiring further evaluation.
Symptoms may include short stature in children, muscle weakness, fatigue, bone problems, and metabolic dysfunction in adults.
Causes include pituitary tumors, genetic conditions, brain injuries, infections, and certain medications affecting pituitary function.
Treatment may include growth hormone replacement therapy, treatment of underlying pituitary conditions, and management of associated complications.
Some growth hormone deficiencies can be treated with replacement therapy, but the response depends on the underlying cause and timing of treatment.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
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How does it work?
Bloody Good helps you measure your baseline health, identify urgent issues, and track changes over time
1
Book your test
Choose the testing that suits your goals. After ordering, you will receive your referral by email.
2
Collect your samples
Have your sample collected at one of our 4000+ partner collection centres.
3
View your results
View your lab results and receive a personalised review from the secure Bloody Good platform.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our products and services.
Most collection centres accept walk-ins. Some may require a booking - check details when you click on your chosen location.
If your test needs fasting, we’ll include that in your instructions after you order. Fasting usually means no food for 8–12 hours, but water is fine.
Just your pathology referral form (we email it to you)
Of course. Just maybe don’t bring the friend who faints at the sight of blood.
They’re the highly trained professionals who take your blood sample - with a steady hand and a sharp needle. They love blood, but don’t worry… they’re not vampires. Just legends who make blood tests quick, clean, and (almost) painless.
Some of our tests include Urine, Stool, Saliva and more. Each test will have a clear description on what sample you will need to give and instructions on how.
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