Overview
What abnormal results mean:
A diminished amount of hGH indicates a problem either in the hypothalamus or the pituitary. Additional testing can illustrate the exact site of the deficiency. In children, a deficiency of GH results in dwarfism. In adults, it may be associated with panhypopituitarism. About 10% to 15% of people with normal functioning pituitaries may fail to respond on the first test. The test is often repeated.
Review Date 2/28/2024
Updated by: Sandeep K. Dhaliwal, MD, board-certified in Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Springfield, VA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.