An Insulin test measures the level of insulin in the blood. Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas and plays a critical role in regulating blood glucose levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy.
This test is used to evaluate insulin production and to help diagnose conditions such as Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia (excess insulin), and insulinoma (insulin-secreting pancreatic tumor). It is often ordered alongside a fasting blood glucose or C-peptide test to get a complete picture of glucose metabolism. It is also used to monitor patients undergoing treatment for diabetes and to assess the effectiveness of insulin therapy.
