The C-peptide is a connecting peptide that is released by the pancreas. It is released by the beta cells of the pancreas and is excreted by the kidneys. The C-peptide is made up of amino acids and consists of 31 amino acid polypeptide. As the pancreas produces insulin it also releases C-peptides. It is released in a one to one ratio. So, the level of C-peptide is an indicator of abnormalities and disease. C-peptide connects the A-chain of the insulin to the B-chain and is important in the insulin synthesis pathways. C-peptide binds to cells and activates certain processes for the release of enzymes. C-peptide is an indicator of the amount of insulin secreted. C-peptide tests are generally used to distinguish between type 1 and type 2 diabetes wherein a very low amount of C-peptide confirms the presence of type 1 diabetes when clinically correlated. A C-peptide test can also be used to determine the exact cause of hypoglycemia. It is used as one of the diagnostic procedures to evaluate pancreatic cancer, insulinoma, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and gastrinomas. A C-peptide test is performed after a patient is made to fast for 8 to 12 hours without consuming food or fluids. The patient is asked to stop taking blood sugar lowering medications for the fasting period. Then, a fasting blood sugar sample is taken. Normal C-peptide test results range from 0.51 to 2.72 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter). Low levels indicate type 1 diabetes, liver disease, or severe infection. High levels indicate type 2 diabetes, insulinoma, or Cushing’s syndrome.
Locate Clinic
