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Description

WHAT IS A GASTRIN LAB TEST?

The Gastrin Test measures the level of the hormone, Gastrin, in the blood.

AM I REQUIRED TO FAST FOR THIS LAB TEST?

Yes.  You must fast at least twelve (12) hours prior to having your specimen collected.

WHAT IS THE PRICE OF A GASTRIN LAB TEST?

$89.00

*Price may vary by location – contact your local ANY LAB TEST NOW®

DESCRIPTION:

Gastrin is a hormone produced by G-cells in the stomach that controls the release of acid into your stomach.  When there is food in the stomach the level of gastrin rises to produce and release acid into the stomach for digestion.  The normal response of higher levels of acid in the stomach and intestines will cause gastrin levels to fall.  Gastrin also helps the pancreas produce enzymes for digestion, helps the liver produce bile and stimulates the intestines to move food through the digestive tract.

If the gastrin level is too high your body will release too much acid into the stomach causing diarrhea, peptic ulcers and abdominal pain.  The gastrin test will detect excess production of gastrin and gastric acid.  It will help to diagnose gastrin-producing tumors called gastrinomas, Zollinger-Ellison (ZE) syndrome and hyperplasia (enlargement or excess functioning) of G-cells which are the specialized cells that produce gastrin.  This test is also used to monitor someone after surgical removal of a gastrinoma for potential recurrence.

WHY DO I NEED MY GASTRIN LEVEL TESTED?

Are you suffering from recurrent peptic ulcers, diarrhea and/or abdominal pain?

The gastrin test can help to identify the cause of severe recurrent peptic ulcers.  These may be due to Zollinger-Ellison (ZE) syndrome.  The test can also identify pernicious anemia.  ZE syndrome is characterized by recurrent peptic ulcers that are caused by gastrinomas which produce excess gastrin and gastric acid.  Gastrinomas usually form in the duodenum but are sometimes found in the pancreas.  More than half of gastrinomas are malignant and must be removed surgically.  Gastrinomas can metastasize to other parts of the body such as the liver.  Although stomach medications may be used to address some of the pain and symptoms, it is important to identify the underlying cause.

TEST DETAILS:

Normal Range

Adults: 18 and older – less than or equal to 100 pg/mL

Children: 5 – 17 years old – <65 pg/mL

WHAT TYPE OF PHYSICIAN SHOULD I SEE?

You should see your primary care physician or a gastroenterologist.

OTHER RELEVANT LAB TESTS:

Those who have the Gastrin Test may also want to consider the Basic Check Up or Complete Metabolic Profile.

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