High C-peptide may reflect increased endogenous insulin production or other factors such as kidney function.
Test summary
Test name
C-Peptide
Abbreviations
C-peptide, Insulin C-peptide
Category
Endocrinology / Glucose Metabolism
Panel
Pancreatic Beta-Cell Function
Specimen
Serum / plasma
Common units
ng/mL, nmol/L
What does the test measure?
Measures C-peptide, which is released in parallel with insulin made by the pancreas.
Why is the test ordered?
Used to assess endogenous insulin production and in selected evaluations of unexplained hypoglycemia or pancreatic conditions.
Information about a low result
Low C-peptide can occur when endogenous insulin production is reduced; the simultaneous glucose level is important.
Information about a high result
High C-peptide may reflect increased endogenous insulin production or other factors such as kidney function.
Reference and clinical context
Use the performing laboratory's report and the sampling conditions first. Fasting status, timing, and whether the test is diagnostic or for monitoring can change interpretation.
Reference range 1
>= 1.1 – <= 4.4 ng/mL
Population
Adults
Specimen
Serum / plasma
Example fasting reference interval
The source laboratory gives >=1.1–<=4.4 ng/mL as an example interval. Use the performing laboratory's own reference interval for an individual result.
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory, method used, age, sex, pregnancy status, and clinical context. The reference range on your own laboratory report takes precedence.
Interpretation notes
C-peptide remains in the blood longer than insulin. Fasting status and simultaneous glucose are important for interpretation.
Related specialties
Endocrinology
Internal Medicine
Family Medicine
Pediatric Endocrinology
Frequently asked questions
No. Laboratory results are interpreted with symptoms, medical history, sampling conditions, and related tests.
Start with the performing laboratory's report and the purpose of testing; diagnostic cutoffs are separate sourced clinical thresholds.
Results that are clearly outside range, persistent, symptomatic, or unexpected should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.