What is a Secretin-Stimulation Test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is the secretin test?
This test measures the capacity of the pancreas to respond to secretin. It is also known as the secretin stimulation test. This test allows the estimated volume of the pancreatic secretion and bicarbonate concentration.
Also Read: Serum Amylase
What is secretin?
Two hormones, secretin and cholecystokinin, are involved in the stimulation of the pancreas. Secretin is a peptide hormone that is secreted by the small intestines and stimulates the secretion of pancreatic juice and bicarbonate production.
What is the significance of secretin in the body?
The secretin neutralises the acid in the stomach that activates the pancreatic enzymes. These enzymes help the breakdown and absorption of food and nutrients.
What is the average value of secretin stimulation?
Secretin-stimulated secretion volume: 165 – 536 ml/hour
Bicarbonate concentration: 9.8 – 39.7 mmol/hour
Why is it done?
A secretin test is used to check the digestive function of the pancreas. Some of the following diseases are diagnosed:
- Chronic pancreatitis.
- Cystic fibrosis.
- Pancreatic cancer.
- Gastrinoma (Zollinger-Ellison syndrome)
This test should not be performed in patients with acute pancreatitis
How is the test performed?
In this test, the healthcare inserts a nasogastric tube through the nose and down into the stomach. Then this tube is moved into the upper section of the small intestine (duodenum). In this part, secretin and bicarbonate are normally present. The secretin will be injected into the vein to stimulate the pancreas. Over an hour, the tube will suck out the samples of the fluids released by the pancreas.
