C-Peptide, Blood Test

This blood test is used to evaluate low or high blood sugar levels. It is often ordered for patients with diabetes, hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Because C-peptide levels and body-produced insulin levels are generally equal, this test is used to measure insulin levels and is especially helpful for measuring insulin levels in those who use insulin medication.

C-peptide is a breakdown product of insulin. When the pancreas produces insulin, it is initially a large molecule. It later splits into two: Insulin and C-peptide.

The C-peptide test can be used to indicate a variety of diseases and disorders, but it is primarily used in the diagnosis of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).