C-peptide
Laboratory Tests
estimated about CNY 200-500
(estimated about USD 30-70)
1 hr
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Description
C-peptide testing helps assess insulin production in diabetes management or suspected insulin resistance, with costs typically ranging ¥200–500 in China; ChinaMedicalHub assists with hospital booking and interpreter support.
Main Uses
C-peptide testing is primarily used to: 1. Distinguish between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as it helps assess the body's own insulin production, 2. Monitor the effectiveness of islet cell transplantation, 3. Evaluate the presence and severity of insulin resistance, 4. Diagnose and manage conditions related to abnormal insulin production, such as insulinomas, 5. Assess the functional status of the beta cells in the pancreas, especially in patients with long-standing diabetes or those who have undergone pancreatic surgery.
Normal Range
The normal range for C-peptide levels in the blood is typically between 0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) when fasting, and can rise up to 5-10 ng/mL after a meal. These values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the specific method used for measurement.
Low Values - Possible Causes
Low C-peptide levels can be caused by: 1. Type 1 diabetes, where the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas, 2. Pancreatectomy or pancreatic surgery, which removes part or all of the pancreas, 3. Chronic pancreatitis, leading to damage of the pancreatic tissue, 4. Certain medications that affect pancreatic function, 5. Genetic defects affecting beta cell function or development.
High Values - Possible Causes
High C-peptide levels can be due to: 1. Insulin resistance, as seen in type 2 diabetes, where the body produces more insulin (and thus more C-peptide) to compensate for its reduced effectiveness, 2. Insulinomas, which are tumors of the pancreas that produce excessive amounts of insulin, 3. Renal failure, since the kidneys play a role in clearing C-peptide from the body, 4. Obesity, often associated with increased insulin production, 5. Excessive use of sulfonylureas, drugs that stimulate insulin secretion.