What does the growth hormone stimulation test examine

The growth hormone stimulation test is mainly used to evaluate whether the secretion function of growth hormone in children or adults is normal, and is a key diagnostic tool for growth hormone deficiency. This experiment observes the peak secretion of growth hormone through drug stimulation to determine the ability of the pituitary gland to secrete growth hormone. The core objective of the growth hormone stimulation test is to detect the reserve function of pituitary secretion of growth hormone. During the experiment, drugs such as arginine, insulin, or clonidine will be used to stimulate the pituitary gland, and blood samples will be collected multiple times at specific time points to measure growth hormone levels. Healthy individuals will experience a significant peak in growth hormone secretion after drug stimulation, while patients with growth hormone deficiency will show insufficient secretion. This examination has important diagnostic value for diseases such as growth and development delay in children and pituitary dysfunction in adults. Before conducting the growth hormone stimulation test, fasting for at least 8 hours is required, and blood glucose and vital signs should be closely monitored during the test. Some subjects may experience drug reactions such as hypoglycemia and dizziness, but medical staff will monitor the entire process to ensure safety. The examination results need to be comprehensively judged based on clinical manifestations and other hormone tests, and a single abnormal test value cannot be directly diagnosed. If the results show insufficient secretion of growth hormone, further imaging examinations such as pituitary MRI may be necessary to clarify the cause.

It is recommended that parents seek medical examination promptly when their children experience significant growth retardation or an annual growth rate of less than 4 centimeters. In daily life, it is necessary to ensure that children have sufficient sleep and balanced nutrition, and avoid excessive exercise or mental stress that affects growth hormone secretion. Patients diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency should strictly follow the doctor's advice for hormone replacement therapy and regularly review and adjust their medication plan.