IGFBP-3

Chemical Pathology

Background Information

The insulin-like growth factor IGF-1 circulates bound to proteins. IGFBP-3 is the pre-dominant binding protein, levels of which are growth hormone dependant.

IGFBP-3 is very occasionally requested in addition to IGF-1 by the paediatricians, in the investigation of growth disorders in children.

Patient Preparation

No specific preparation required

Sample requirements

For children and neonates, blood taken into a 1mL minicollect plain tube.

A 3.5mL rust top tube can be used in older children but serum must be separated from the gel the same day.

Storage/transport

Do not store. Send at ambient temperature to the laboratory on day of sample collection.

Required information

Relevant clinical details, including reason for the request.

Turnaround times

Samples are referred to an external laboratory for analysis with results expected back within 14 working days.

Reference ranges

Ranges and interpretation reported as provided by referral laboratory.

Page last updated: 24/09/2025 | Page last reviewed: 24/09/2025