 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Growth hormone stimulation test
| | | |
| |
| |
| Growth hormone stimulation test |
|
Definition:
The growth hormone (GH) stimulation test measures the plasma level of human growth hormone (hGH) after the administration of the amino acid arginine and/or GH-releasing hormone. It measures the ability of the pituitary to secrete GH. Alternative Names:
Arginine test
Text Continues Below
How the test is performed:
An angiocatheter (IV) is usually placed in a vein, typically in the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band or blood pressure cuff is placed around the upper arm to cause the veins below the band to swell with blood. A needle is inserted into the vein, and then removed while the angiocatheter is left in the vein. The band is then removed to restore circulation.
Your blood will be drawn 5 times. To prevent multiple punctures of the vein, samples will be taken through the IV line instead of repeatedly re-inserting the needle. The first sample will be drawn between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m., then an intravenous (IV) infusion of arginine is started and continued for 30 minutes. After the 30-minute infusion, GH-releasing hormone is administered intravenously and then four more blood samples are drawn at 30-minute intervals. (Sometimes arginine or GH-releasing hormone is given alone for this test. The variation of the test used depends on the preferences of the prescribing physician.) How to prepare for the test:
You will be asked to fast and limit physical activity for 10 to 12 hours before the test, or test results may be altered and invalidated. If you are taking medications, your health care provider may ask that you withhold these before the test, as some can affect results. (Do not discontinue any medications without checking with your health care provider.)
| 
.gif)
