Insulin-like Growth Factor 2

This test measures levels of Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 (IGF-2) in the blood. IGF-2 is a hormone produced by the liver. Its primary function is to regulate the production of Growth Hormone (GH) during growth and development of a fetus during gestation. IGF-2 is also linked to the production of other hormones including Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Progesterone. Deficiency in IGF-2 can contribute to growth problems in children. Certain types of tumors can produce an excess of IGF-2. As a result, measuring IGF-2 levels can be useful in the diagnosis or monitoring of treatment for some types of cancer including prostate, colon, breast and colorectal.

This IGF-2 is typically ordered along with other hormone tests when ordered by a person’s doctor. It may also be used to assist in monitoring the treatment of certain types of cancer.

Turnaround for this test is typically 5-12 business days.