Somatomedin C (IGF I)

Insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) Is a polypeptide hormone with a proinsulin and insulin-like structure and insulin-like effects; Under the influence of growth hormone (hGH) it is synthesized predominantly in the liver as well as in other tissues. IGF-I plays a mediating role in the metabolic and mitogenic effects of growth hormone, so it Somatomedin too Are called.

Plasma IGF-I concentration is directly dependent on hGH secretion and is an important parameter in the clinical evaluation of growth hormone-related disorders.

IGF-I is a good screening test to assess growth disorders in children. It is more sensitive and specific than the determination of hGH because it does not show significant variability during the day.

Serum IGF-I levels are low both in primary hGH deficiency and in syndromes of partial or complete peripheral resistance to the action of growth hormone. Laron dwarfism, which is based on a qualitative and quantitative defect in the hGH receptor, is characterized by total resistance to the action of growth hormone. This clinical condition is associated with an increase in basal levels of growth hormone but with very low concentrations of IGF-I.

The test can also be used to monitor the short-term or long-term effectiveness of growth hormone treatment.

IGF-I levels are elevated during acromegaly, and the test can be used for both diagnostic and treatment monitoring purposes.

When should I get tested for somatomedin C (IGF I)?

Integrated assessment marker for hGH secretion

• Diagnosis of gigantism and acromegaly;
• Diagnosis of dwarfism;
• Monitoring of pituitary dwarfism, acromegaly, gigantism therapy.

How to prepare for the test?

A test is required on empty stomach .

Research material

Venous blood

Possible interpretation of the results

Increase in somatomedin C levels:

• Acromegaly;
• Gigantism;
• Itzenko-Cushing syndrome;
• Renal failure;
• Pregnancy.

Decreased somatomedin C levels:

• Pituitary dwarfism;
• Hypopituitarism;
• Laron dwarf (with elevated hGH levels);
• Kidney disease;
• Severe liver damage (cirrhosis);
• Vitamin D deficiency;
• Hunger;
• Anorexia;
• Hypothyroidism;
• Emotional Deprivation Syndrome.