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Brigitte describes the tests that helped diagnose her acromegaly

00:50

What tests led to your diagnosis of acromegaly?

“I had blood tests and my insulin-like growth factor level was very high”

View Brigitte’s story >

Actual patient. Patient was compensated for their appearance.
This patient testimonial reflects only this person’s opinions about their own care. Each person’s case is unique and you should always consult a doctor for information and advice about the diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly.



Please note that the tests used to diagnose acromegaly may vary according to your particular situation and to local healthcare practices.

Oral glucose tolerance test

For the oral glucose tolerance test, or OGTT, you won’t be able to eat or drink anything for about 8 hours before the test.

When you arrive at your healthcare professional’s office or the lab, a healthcare professional will take a sample of your blood. You will then be given a glucose (“sugary”) drink.

After 2 hours, a healthcare professional will take another sample of your blood. After this, you will be able to have something to eat and go home.

If you have acromegaly, your growth hormone levels will remain high throughout the test. This will happen even after a glucose drink, which would normally result in the growth hormone levels decreasing to very low levels.

The three main elements of the oral glucose tolerance test

IGF-1 measurement

Some of the blood you provide for the growth hormone test will be sent to a laboratory to measure your levels of IGF-1.

IGF-1 is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the liver that mediates nearly all of the actions of growth hormone on the tissues of the body.

Growth hormone profile throughout the day

Looking at how levels of your growth hormone change throughout the day is a test that some hospitals may use to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for acromegaly.

This test also involves fasting from about 10 pm the evening before an early morning appointment at the hospital.

To perform this test, a needle is placed in your arm and blood will be taken at intervals over several hours.

After the first sample is taken, you can have breakfast and you will be able to move about freely.

When will I get the results of the tests?

Timing varies. Please consult your healthcare professional for details.

Review the resources used to create the content in this section >

Read about the imaging techniques used in the diagnosis of acromegaly >

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Ipsen
Please always consult a healthcare professional if you require healthcare advice or if you have any specific concerns regarding your acromegaly, its treatment or side effects. This site is not intended to provide medical advice or substitute a conversation with a healthcare professional. This website has been developed by Ipsen in collaboration with those living with acromegaly and the healthcare professionals who care for them. Ipsen would like to thank everyone for their valuable insights and stories. All names used on this website are not necessarily real names. Visit our website for more information about us, or to contact us directly. Website design and development by Kanga Health Ltd. Website reference April 2020 NON-US-001403_US