Secretion of IGF-1 is directly stimulated by somatotropic hormone (STH, also known as growth hormone), meaning that IGF-1 levels can be interpreted as a functional equivalent of STH.
Useful in cases of:
Growth imbalances (especially in young animals)
Changes in coat structure
Acromegaly (in adult animals)
Therapy-resistant diabetes mellitus in cats
Single-value interpretation:
A single IGF-1 measurement may be only moderately decreased in cases of growth imbalance. If results are inconclusive, a function test—such as the xylazine stimulation test (STH stimulation test)—is recommended.
In cattle:
IGF-1 serves as a valuable laboratory parameter for the early diagnosis of ovarian cysts and laminitis.
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.
Complete the order form and send it together
with your samples to the following address:
Laboklin (UK), Unit 20, Wheel Forge Way, Trafford Park, Manchester, M17 1EH
Buccal swabs and EDTA tubes are available from
us free of charge, to order, please use the
online form
<Request sample collection
materials> or email: info@laboklin.co.uk.
