IHC, HGH Test

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone that is naturally produced by the body. It is synthesized and secreted by cells in the anterior pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. Its secretion into the circulation follows a pulsatile pattern resulting in widely fluctuating blood levels that are influenced by multiple factors such as age, gender, sleep, physical activity, diet, stress, fever, steroids and the environment. HGH stimulates many metabolic processes in cells. HGH affects protein, fat, carbohydrate and mineral metabolism. The major role of HGH is to stimulate the liver to secrete Insulin-like Growth Factor-I (IGF-I). IGF-I stimulates production of cartilage cells, resulting in bone growth and also plays a key role in muscle protein synthesis and organ growth.

Identifies somatotroph cells of the human adenohypophysis. Sub classifies pituitary adenomas Identifies adenocarcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and large cell carcinomas of non-pituitary origin.

Process of obtaining blood sample in adults: A band is wrapped around the arm, 3-4 inches above the collection site (superficial vein that lies within the elbow pit) The needle cap is removed and is held in line with the vein, pulling the skin tight The required amount of blood sample is collected by pulling the plunger of the syringe out slowly The wrap band is removed, gauze is placed on the collection site, and the needle is removed The blood is immediately transferred into the blood container, which has the appropriate preservative/clot activator/anti-coagulant The syringe and the needle are disposed into the appropriate “sharp container” for safe and hygienic disposal.