Anti-Insulin Antibody

Test Description
Insulin, whether beef, pork, or human type, contains insulin-related peptides, which
may stimulate production of antibodies. With subsequent insulin injections, these
antibodies join and neutralize the insulin so that it is no longer able to function
appropriately. Larger doses of insulin are then required to attempt to meet the patient’s
needs, a phenomenon called insulin resistance. This is indicated by the presence of
IgG and IgM anti-insulin antibodies. If the anti-insulin antibodies are found to be
IgE, this indicates the body has developed an allergic response to the medication
This allergy can result in minor allergy symptoms such as rash, or more severe
responses. The insulin antibody test is performed when insulin is no longer controlling
the patient’s diabetes or if symptoms of allergy to the insulin are present.

Normal Values

Undetectable for antibodies

Possible Meanings of Abnormal Values

Increased
Allergy to insulin
Factitious hypoglycemia
Insulin resistance

Contributing Factors to Abnormal Values

• Radioactive scans within 7 days prior to the test will alter test results.

Interventions/Implications

Pretest
• Explain to the patient the purpose of the test and the need for a blood sample to be drawn.
• No fasting is required before the test.

Procedure

• A 7-mL blood sample is drawn in a red-top collection tube.
• Gloves are worn throughout the procedure.

Posttest

• Apply pressure at venipuncture site. Apply dressing, periodically assessing for continued
  bleeding.
• Label the specimen and transport it to the laboratory.
• Report abnormal findings to the primary care provider.