Test guide
Growth Hormone Tests
Growth hormone (GH) tests are blood tests that check if your body is making a normal amount of GH. Hormones are chemical messengers in your bloodstream that control the actions of certain cells or organs. GH, also known as human growth hormone, controls your body's growth. It also helps control metabolism, the process your body uses to make energy from the food you eat. GH is made in the pituitary gland , a small organ at the base of your brain that controls many functions, including growth.
What it is for
GH tests are used to detect and monitor GH disorders, including: The tests may also be used if other tests show an issue with your pituitary gland. Some conditions, such as pituitary tumors , can cause your body to make too much or too little GH. Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Medical test information is public domain. Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-18. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Limitations
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.
Also known as
- GH test, human growth hormone test, somatotropin test, growth hormone stimulation test, growth hormone suppression test
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