Results
A growth hormone (GH) test measures the amount of human growth hormone (GH) in the blood.
Normal
The normal values listed here-called a reference range-are just a guide. These ranges vary from lab to lab, and your lab may have a different range for what’s normal. Your lab report should contain the range your lab uses. Also, your doctor will evaluate your results based on your health and other factors. This means that a value that falls outside the normal values listed here may still be normal for you or your lab.
Growth hormone (GH)
Men
Less than 5 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) (less than 220 picomoles per liter[pmol/L])
Women
Less than 10 ng/mL (less than 440 pmol/L)
Children
Less than 20 ng/mL (less than 880 pmol/L)
High values
High GH values may mean gigantism or acromegaly is present. These conditions are caused by a noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland (adenoma). Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels should also be high.
High GH levels may also be caused by diabetes, kidney disease, or starvation. These conditions do not cause high IGF-1 levels.