This blood test is for C-peptide, a substance produced by the pancreas in equal proportions to insulin. It is a more stable compound than insulin, so practically it can be used to assess insulin secretion, in both normal subjects and in those who are insulin treated. Low C-peptide levels indicate decreased insulin production.
C-peptide levels can also help to differentiate between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas produces little or no insulin, and therefore little or no C-peptide. In type 2 diabetes, C-peptide levels will typically be normal or high, as the pancreas is working harder to overcome insulin resistance (reduced sensitivity to the effects of insulin) by producing more insulin. An insulinoma (tumour producing insulin) will also give rise to high C-peptide levels.
Often requested alongside a test for Fasting Glucose, a low level of C peptide with a normal or high Fasting Glucose level may indicate Type 1 diabetes, or longstanding Type 2 diabetes. If the Fasting Glucose level is low and the C peptide is also low, it may just indicate a lack of food intake recently or rarely Addison's disease.
A Phlebotomy Only Test
This blood test is unavailable for fingerprick (microtainer) collection. If you're unsure about how to access this test or how the procedure works please watch this short video.
Sample Collection Options for this C Peptide Test.
Arrange own Phlebotomy
Cost: Arrange Yourself
If you have access to a Healthcare Professional this kit for a C Peptide Test has all they'll need.
Visit a Partner Clinic
Cost: Add £30
We have partnered with Superdrug and Circle Health Hospitals in order to provide you with phlebotomy.
Nurse Home Visits
Cost: Add £55
Let our Nurses come to your home or place of work - we cover Mainland England, Wales, Scotland & Northern Ireland.
Do you have a question about this C Peptide? We aim to get back to you with an answer the same working day.
There's a reason that over 30% of Blue Horizon Kit requests are from patients that have used us before.