Gastrin
GAST
Description
"Gastrin" test measures the amount of gastrin in your blood to evaluate stomach acid production and digestive function. It’s often used to help diagnose conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, gastrinomas, or chronic gastritis. Elevated levels may indicate acid overproduction, tumors, or impaired regulation. Doctors typically order this test when ulcers, heartburn, or unexplained stomach pain are present. Results guide next steps in care. Monitoring gastrin levels supports targeted diagnosis and long-term digestive health management.
Test Category
Hormones
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Serum
Units
Picograms Per Milliliter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Gastrointestinal System Group, Hormone Health Group
Test Group Description
Gastrointestinal Health Group: This group assesses different facets of gastrointestinal function and health, providing insights into digestive well-being and related conditions. Hormone Health Group: Its focus is on evaluating hormone levels and function, providing insights into hormonal balance and associated health conditions.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 45–90 pg/mL
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 0–100 pg/mL
SI Unit: Not Applicable
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Antacid use
Chronic gastritis (Inflammation of the stomach lining)
Chronic kidney disease
G-cell hyperplasia (Overgrowth of gastrin-producing cells)
Helicobacter pylori infection (Bacterial infection of the stomach lining)
Hypochlorhydria (Low stomach acid production)
- ...
Key Reasons For Testing
Diagnosis of Gastrinoma: Gastrin testing detects gastrinoma, a tumor causing excessive gastrin production and symptoms like ulcers and diarrhea.
Acid Level Assessment: Gastrin levels help evaluate gastric acid production in conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Acid-Related Disorders: Gastrin testing aids in diagnosing GERD and peptic ulcers, guiding treatment.
Treatment Monitoring: Tracks gastrin changes to evaluate therapy efficacy.
Anemia Evaluation: Elevated gastrin may indicate pernicious anemia linked to B12 absorption issues.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
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