Professional
Technical
IVT
Growth Hormone Stimulation Test
A diagnostic procedure that measures growth hormone response to provocative agents.
Full Definition
A growth hormone stimulation test evaluates the pituitary's ability to release growth hormone in response to stimulating agents such as arginine, clonidine, or insulin-induced hypoglycemia. This test is the gold standard for diagnosing growth hormone deficiency in children with short stature and adults with suspected hypopituitarism. Multiple blood samples are collected over 2-3 hours to measure peak growth hormone response. Adequate stimulation requires proper patient preparation and careful monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Specify stimulating agent used; note contraindications and safety requirements.
In Context
- "The growth hormone stimulation test showed peak GH of 3.2 ng/mL, confirming deficiency." — Pediatric endocrinology report
- "Insulin tolerance testing requires immediate glucose availability for hypoglycemia management." — Clinical protocol
Also known as
GH Stimulation Test
Growth Hormone Provocation Test
Contrasted with
Growth Hormone Suppression Test
Don't confuse with
IGF-1 Test
Random Growth Hormone