Why get tested?
To identify diseases and conditions caused by deficiencies and overproduction of growth hormone (GH), to evaluate pituitary function, and to monitor the effectiveness of GH treatment

When to get tested?
As part of an evaluation of pituitary function; when you have symptoms of slow growth, short stature, and delayed development (in children) or decreased bone density, reduced muscle strength, and increased lipids (in adults) that suggest insufficient GH and IGF-1 production; when you have symptoms of gigantism (in children) or acromegaly (in adults) that suggest excess GH and IGF-1 production; during and after treatment for GH abnormalities

Sample required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm or by a fingerstick (in children)