Medical Health Encyclopedia

Growth hormone suppression test

You will be asked to relax for at least 90 minutes before the test, as exercise or increased activity can alter hGH levels.

If your child is to have this test performed, it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel and even demonstrate on a doll. The more familiar your child is with what will happen and why, the less anxiety he or she will feel.

How the test will feel:

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When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

This test is to evaluate for elevated levels of hGH, a condition that leads to gigantism in children and acromegaly in adults. This is not a normal screening tool, rather a test that is performed if you show signs of increased hGH.

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