What is the Gastrin serum 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 gastrin serum test?
This test measures the amount of gastrin, a hormone in the blood. When there is intake of food, gastrin is secreted in the blood.
Also Read: Peptic Ulcer
What is the function of gastrin in the body?
Gastrin is a hormone which is required for the release of hydrochloric or gastric acid in the stomach which is required for the digestion of food. In return when gastric acid increases in the stomach secretion of gastrin is stopped.
What is the normal value of gastrin?
The normal range of gastrin is:
- In adults: 0 pg/ml – 180 pg/ml
- In children: 0 pg/ml – 125 pg/ml
What are the indications for the test to be done?
The following symptoms are indicative of the test:
- Problems in digestion
- Recurring Peptic ulcer
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Recurring gastrinomas
What is the use of this gastrin serum test?
It is used to diagnose:
- Zollinger Ellison (ZE) syndrome
- Gastrin-producing tumours’
- G cell hyperplasia
What if gastrin levels are high?
Higher gastrin levels are found in the following conditions:
- Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZE syndrome)
- Gastrinomas (tumours of the digestive system)
- Chronic atrophic gastritis
- Antacids are taken previously
- Pernicious anemia
- G-cell hyperplasia
- Chronic kidney disease
- Pyloric obstruction
What are the preparations to be done before the test?
Fasting for 12 hrs. is required before the test in which drinking water is allowed but not food. Also, alcohol consumption and certain medications as recommended by the physician are to be avoided 24 hrs. before the test. Caffeine is also to be avoided 12 hrs. before the test.
