Growth Hormone Day Series

You will receive a separate appointment letter which will inform you if you need to fast for any of the other bloods being taken at this visit.

Why am I having this test?

Your doctor has referred you to have a growth hormone day series to monitor your Acromegaly and to help determine whether your treatment is effective. A single blood sample is not a reliable way of measuring growth hormone because it is released in pulses so results can be very variable. By measuring a series of growth hormone levels throughout the day disease activity can be assessed more accurately.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

Please take your medications as normal and bring any medications you will need for the day with you.

What happens during the test?

You will need to arrive at the endocrine investigation unit by 08:30. A fine plastic tube called a cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm, to allow us to take blood samples at regular intervals. The cannula will be flushed with saline to keep it patent between sampling.

How long will the test take?

The test lasts from 08:30 to 17:00 with sampling for growth hormone at two hourly intervals. Between these times you may be able to leave the unit but not the Hospital, as you will have the cannula in situ.

Will I experience any side effects?

The test has no common side effects.

When will I get my results?

Results cannot be given out over the telephone and will be discussed at your next clinic appointment. You and your GP will be notified if any changes to your treatment are required.

Any other questions?

Please contact the endocrine unit on 01223 217848
09:00 to 17:00 Monday to Friday.

The timing of the test is important so please attend at the time specified on your appointment letter. If you are unable to attend your appointment please contact the endocrine unit to re-arrange it.

General Information

Discounted parking is available for patients attending clinic appointments over three hour’s duration. Please present your appointment letter to receive this. Food and drink -there is a coffee shop in the treatment centre atrium and further food and drink facilities in the main hospital concourse.