Leptin Blood Test - More Information

The leptin test, also known as a leptin blood test, leptin level test and a leptin lab test, measures the leptin blood level.

Leptin is a hormone made by fat cells that helps block the hunger signal in the body. Leptin, often called the satiety hormone, works by interfering with the hormone ghrelin and preventing it from exerting its hunger-inducing effects on the hypothalamus gland. In other words, leptin reduces appetite by interacting with special receptors on the lateral hypothalamus which explains why low leptin levels can lead to an uncontrolled appetite and obesity.

Because of the way it functions, leptin is though to have an important role in regulating energy balance in the body. Leptin blood levels are correlated with overall obesity and fat. In obesity, leptin resistance occurs, leading to an imbalance between the hunger and satiety signals which can lead to overeating. Typically, leptin blood levels are higher earlier in the day. Leptin levels are decreased by high testosterone levels and so the leptin blood test is often ordered with the testosterone free and total test. When concerned about high leptin levels, the estradiol test is sometimes ordered as high estrogen levels result in higher leptin levels.

To get a leptin test near you, simply order online and get tested at the Quest Diagnostics lab location that you chose. Once your leptin lab report is ready, it will be available for download. As can be seen on the sample leptin lab results, the leptin blood level is reported as a number and can be compared against the reference range provided by the lab.