Insulin Test
Definition A blood test that measures the amount of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Why is the Test Performed?
The most important reason for measuring the serum insulin level is in the diagnosis or evaluation of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Insulin is a hormone released from the beta cells of the pancreas. Insulin's most important function is to facilitate glucose uptake by a variety of tissues, especially adipose (fat) and skeletal muscle. Insulin also stimulates the synthesis and storage of triglycerides and proteins. Insulin is the most important regulator of blood glucose. High blood glucose (such as exists shortly after a meal) stimulates the release of insulin, whereas low blood glucose levels inhibit insulin release.
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