[Strategy of exploration of states of growth hormone hypersecretion]

GH secretion is épisodic in humans. Isolated plasma concentrations thus cannot be used to diagnose excess secretion. Assays on GH secretion require repeat determinations of plasma levels over extended 24 h periods. In so-called conjunctive GH hypersecretion conditions (denutrition, critical states), excessive GH secretion is associated with resistance to this hormone, as indicated by a decrease in plasma IGF-1 concentrations. In contrast, IGF-1 concentrations are high and correlated with GH levels during permanent GH hypersecretion that occurs in acromegaly. Testing for this disorder will vary according to the clinician's objectives.