Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS

The Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .

The Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS test provides a vital measurement of insulin levels using the sophisticated technique of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). This test is essential for assessing and managing disorders related to insulin dysfunction such as diabetes, insulin resistance, and insulinoma. Given the crucial role of insulin in regulating blood glucose and fatty acid metabolism, accurate quantification is paramount for appropriate clinical management. Ulta Lab Tests offers this cutting-edge test, combining accuracy with affordability, facilitating the early detection and proactive management of insulin-related health conditions.

Clinical Significance and Test Components:

• Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS:
  • Clinical Significance: Insulin is a central hormone in blood glucose control and fatty acid metabolism. Abnormal levels, particularly inappropriately high insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia), can indicate various medical conditions ranging from hypoglycemia to metabolic syndrome.
  • Detection: This test specifically measures the level of insulin in the blood using LC/MS/MS, known for its accuracy and minimal interference from other substances.
  • Diagnosis: It is primarily used to investigate the causes of hypoglycemia and differentiate between various hyperinsulinemic conditions, including insulinoma, insulin resistance, and others such as noninsulinoma pancreatogenous hypoglycemia syndrome, insulin antibodies, and surreptitious insulin administration.
  • Monitoring: Regular testing is critical in managing conditions like diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance, adjusting treatment plans based on insulin levels.

Reference Range(s)
Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS    ≤16 uIU/mL

Grouping with Similar Tests in the Endocrine Panel:

This test is often conducted alongside other related assays in a comprehensive endocrine panel to evaluate insulin resistance or the effectiveness of treatments for related disorders:

• C-Peptide Test:
  • Measures the amount of C-peptide in the blood, which helps determine the body’s own insulin production levels.
• Cardio IQ Insulin Resistance Panel with Score (test code 36509):
  • Includes LC/MS/MS measurement of C-peptide alongside insulin, providing insights into the patient’s insulin resistance status and helping in differential diagnosis, such as distinguishing between insulinoma and exogenous insulin administration.

Symptoms to Recognize:

Patients experiencing the following symptoms might benefit from the Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS test:

• Frequent episodes of hypoglycemia, including confusion, jitteriness, and sweating
• Unexpected weight changes, either gain or loss
• Excessive hunger or fatigue
• Blurred vision or other visual disturbances
• Slow healing wounds
• Numbness or tingling in extremities

Conclusion:

The Insulin, Intact, LC/MS/MS test from Ulta Lab Tests is a vital tool for diagnosing and monitoring insulin-related disorders. By accurately measuring insulin levels, this test aids in understanding various health conditions and tailoring specific treatments. Ulta Lab Tests provides this advanced diagnostic option at a competitive price, enhancing the accessibility and management of health conditions related to insulin levels. Timely intervention based on precise diagnostic results can lead to significantly improved health outcomes and a better quality of life, highlighting the importance of choosing reliable and thorough lab testing services like those offered by Ulta Lab Tests.