GH is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a vital role in:

Stimulating growth of bones and tissues.

Regulating protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism.

Supporting muscle mass and bone density.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing growth hormone deficiency in children and adults.

Detecting excess GH secretion (acromegaly, gigantism).

Monitoring pituitary tumors and treatment response.

Evaluating short stature or delayed growth in children.

GH secretion is pulsatile, so single measurements may be supplemented with stimulation or suppression tests for accuracy.

Analyte: Serum growth hormone concentration (ng/mL).

Normal Range (varies by lab):

Adults: < 5 ng/mL (fasting baseline)

Children: Higher levels depending on age/puberty stage

Abnormal Findings:

High GH: Suggests acromegaly, gigantism, or pituitary adenoma.

Low GH: Indicates growth hormone deficiency, pituitary dysfunction, or hypothalamic disorders.

Clinical Use:

Provides a direct measure of pituitary GH secretion.

Helps guide treatment for growth disorders and pituitary tumors.

Supports monitoring of therapy outcomes (e.g., surgery, medication).