Name of the Procedure:

Growth Hormone Suppression Panel (Glucose Administration)

Summary

The Growth Hormone Suppression Panel with Glucose Administration is a diagnostic test used to measure levels of glucose and human growth hormone (HGH) in the bloodstream over a period of time after taking a glucose solution. This helps assess how the body regulates HGH in response to glucose intake.

Purpose

This procedure helps diagnose conditions related to abnormal growth hormone levels, such as acromegaly or gigantism. The goal is to monitor how the body’s growth hormone levels change in response to glucose ingestion, providing insight into potential endocrine disorders.

Indications

The test is indicated for patients with symptoms like abnormal growth patterns, enlarged hands or feet, facial changes, and other signs suggestive of excessive growth hormone production. It is also performed for patients with diagnosed pituitary disorders or those undergoing treatment for growth hormone-related conditions.

Preparation

• Patients are required to fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
• Certain medications may need to be paused as per the doctor's recommendation.
• An initial blood draw may be needed to establish baseline levels of glucose and HGH.

Procedure Description

1. The patient arrives at the clinic and a baseline blood sample is taken to measure initial glucose and HGH levels.
2. The patient drinks a glucose solution.
3. Blood samples are collected at multiple intervals: three times for glucose levels (test code 82947) and four times for HGH levels (test code 83003).
4. Each blood draw is typically timed at 30-minute intervals after glucose ingestion.
5. All samples are sent to a lab for analysis.

Duration

The entire procedure typically lasts about 2-3 hours.

Setting

The test is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or hospital laboratory setting.

Personnel

A laboratory technician or nurse will perform the blood draws. An endocrinologist or other healthcare provider specializing in hormone disorders will interpret the results.

Risks and Complications

• Risks include minor discomfort or bruising at the blood draw sites.
• Rarely, patients may experience dizziness or light-headedness due to fasting or glucose administration.
• Some patients could have an allergic reaction to the glucose solution, though this is very uncommon.

Benefits

The test provides valuable information for diagnosing and managing conditions related to abnormal growth hormone levels. Results can help guide treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.

Recovery

There is no significant recovery period required. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately after the procedure. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss test results and potential treatment options.

Alternatives

• IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) measurement, which provides a longer-term marker for HGH levels but may not distinguish acute changes.
• MRI of the pituitary gland to identify any structural abnormalities.

Comparison: The Growth Hormone Suppression Panel is more dynamic and can provide specific information on how the body regulates HGH compared to static tests like IGF-1 measurement.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients may feel mild discomfort from multiple blood draws.
• After drinking the glucose solution, some patients might experience a sweet taste or mild nausea.
• Any pain or discomfort from blood draws is usually managed with minimal intervention, such as applying pressure to the draw site.