C peptide

Description

  • 0.7 – 3.0 ng/ml

Clinical significance

  • C peptide is a protein released by the pancreas. A peptide released during the cleavage of insulin from proinsulin. Insulin is also released by the pancreas. Insulin is important in keeping blood sugar levels within a normal range. Since C peptide is released in amounts equal to insulin, the level of C peptide in blood indicates the amount of insulin produced by pancreas.
  • C peptide is measured to differentiate endogenous (Produced by the body) from exogenous (injected into the body) insulin production.
  • It helps to determine whether a person has type 1 or type 2 Diabetes , to determine the cause of hypoglycaemia ( inappropriate use of drugs, Insulinoma etc.) and to monitor persons recovery after removal of Insulinoma

When to get tested

  • When there is documented acute or recurrent hypoglycaemia (s/s sweating, palpitations, hunger, confusions, blurred vision, fainting and in severe cases seizures and loss of consciousness)
  • To distinguish body’s own Insulin from outside sources of Insulin
  • When diagnosed with Insulinoma to monitor effectiveness of treatment and to detect tumour recurrence.

Elevated level

  • Newly diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes usually has a normal or increased level of C peptide
  • Insulinoma
  • Insulin resistance 
  • Hyperinsulinemia 
  • Cushings syndrome
  • Kidney failure 

Decreased level

  • Type 1 diabetes patients have a low or undetectable level of C peptide 
  • Pancreatectomy

Profile

ALL TEST

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