A growth hormone (GH) test is performed to evaluate the concentration of growth hormone in the body, particularly when growth disorders or pituitary gland abnormalities are suspected. So, what is this test, and who is typically indicated for GH testing? Let’s find out with Medic Saigon Clinic in the following article.
What is Growth Hormone (GH)?
Growth Hormone (GH), also known as human growth hormone, is a hormone secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. GH plays a crucial role in physical development and metabolic regulation in both children and adults. Thanks to the presence of GH, food intake in the body is converted into energy.
Generally, hormone levels in the body fluctuate continuously over time, with age, and according to daily physical activities. In particular, GH levels easily fluctuate when you exercise, sleep, or experience emotional states such as stress or happiness.
The Role of Growth Hormone (GH) in the Human Body
This is an essential and vital hormone for the human body from birth through adulthood. It:
- Stimulates height growth in children and adolescents by promoting long bone development.
- Increases protein synthesis to foster muscle growth and tissue repair.
- Stimulates fat breakdown, helping the body efficiently use fat for energy.
- Reduces cellular glucose utilization, contributing to an increase in blood sugar levels.
- Stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1), a major mediator that drives the growth-promoting effects of GH.
When GH concentrations in the body become excessively high or low, it leads to various medical conditions:
- In children: When hormone levels in the body are excessively high, young children face the risk of growing too rapidly—a condition known as gigantism. This is by no means beneficial for a child’s overall development. Conversely, children also encounter many issues when GH levels are too low. Growth hormone deficiency leads to stunted growth and underdevelopment in height compared to their peers.
- In adults: Abnormally high levels of this hormone in adults can easily lead to acromegaly, a rare condition that often causes significant self-consciousness for affected individuals.
See more: IGF-1 Test A Crucial Indicator in Micronutrient Testing
Who should undergo a GH test?
A GH test is typically performed during nutritional evaluations in children or when assessing pituitary-related conditions in adults:
- Children with delayed growth or stunting suspected of growth hormone deficiency.
- Children growing abnormally fast or exhibiting signs of gigantism.
- Adults suspected of GH deficiency following pituitary conditions.
- Adults suspected of having acromegaly.
Generally, a GH test is rarely ordered as a standalone test in most cases; instead, it is combined with other diagnostic tests. Because GH is secreted in pulses throughout the day (spiking particularly during sleep), GH levels in the blood fluctuate significantly, meaning a single result usually does not accurately reflect overall GH secretion.
How much does a growth hormone test cost? How long does it take to get results?
The cost of a GH test may vary across medical facilities, testing methods, and accompanying services. Typically, the price of this test at Medic Saigon Clinic in Da Nang is 350,000 VND. It is usually included in the clinic’s micronutrient testing package.
Generally, the sample collection process for a GH test takes about 10 minutes. The clinic collects a sample by drawing a small amount of blood from the patient for testing. Results are available within 24 hours after sample collection.
Where to get a growth hormone test for children in Da Nang?
Currently, most clinics and hospitals in Da Nang City perform this test. However, if you are looking for a reliable, fast, and cost-effective testing facility, Medic Saigon Clinic in Da Nang is an excellent choice for you.
With over 15 years of experience in medical laboratory testing, the clinic is equipped with modern machinery alongside a highly experienced team of technicians. Medic Saigon is a trusted testing site for local residents in Da Nang as well as foreign visitors living, traveling, and working in the area.
The clinic currently offers growth hormone (GH) testing as well as a full range of other micronutrient testing services for both children and adults. We are committed to providing maximum satisfaction to customers who choose us for their health screenings.
Contact: MEDIC SAIGON DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC
- Address: 97 Hai Phong, Hai Chau, Da Nang
- Hotline/Zalo/WhatsApp: 0914 496 516
