C-peptide test
Definition
In biochemistry, peptide is a compound of two or more amino acids.
What is c-peptide?
The pancreas secretes proinsulin, comprised of insulin and c-peptide molecules bound together. The two types of molecules split and are released into the bloodstream.
The insulin is the active hormone, while c-peptide remains biologically inactive. Consequently,
it is possible to measure the level of c-peptide in the bloodstream which would indicate the amount of insulin secreted by the pancreas.
It is for this reason that the injected insulin does not affect the c-peptide level.
What is the purpose of the c-peptide test?
* This test serves to distinguish type 1 diabetes from type 2 diabetes.
It is preformed when the diabetes type of given individual has not been ascertained.
Type 1 diabetes: The c-peptide level is extremely low, since the pancreas nearly ceases the production of insulin.
During the honeymoon period, the pancreas still secretes low amounts of insulin, resulting in low c-peptide level.
Type 2 diabetes: The pancreas is still active and secretes insulin.
Due to insulin resistance, the cells do not respond properly to insulin, prompting the pancreas to increase its production.
Consequently, the c-peptide level would be either normal or above the average.
* The test is used so as to locate the reason for repetitive hypoglycemia.
* Insulinoma – a state in which the pancreas secretes abnormal quantities of insulin due to a tumor. The test allows one to ensure the complete removal of the tumor.
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