Diagnosis
Evaluation of IGF-1 as an indirect marker for growth hormone (GH) secretion. IGF-1 release is directly stimulated by GH (somatotropic hormone, STH).
- Alterations may be due to STH deficiency or STH-responsive dermatosis (without actual STH reduction).
- A functional test should be performed only after other endocrinological causes have been excluded, as reference and pathological ranges may overlap.
Species
Dog, cat
Sample material
Serum, 0.5 ml (centrifuged, cooled)
Test procedure
- First blood sample: baseline value
- Administer xylazine intravenously (100 µg/kg)
- Second blood sample: 30 minutes post-injection = stimulation value
Parameter determined
IGF-1
Interpretation
A significant increase in IGF-1 is expected:
- > 2-fold increase if baseline value is low
- > 1.5-fold increase if baseline value is high
Note
IGF-1 measurement must be requested individually for each sample and will be invoiced per sample.
