Test Overview

A gastrin test measures the level of the hormone gastrin in the blood. Gastrin is produced by cells, called G cells, in the stomach lining. When food enters the stomach, G cells trigger the release of gastrin in the blood. As blood levels of gastrin rise, the stomach releases acid (gastric acid) that helps break down and digest food. When enough gastric acid has been produced by the stomach, gastrin levels in the blood drop.

Gastrin also has minor effects on the pancreas, liver, and intestines. Gastrin helps the pancreas produce enzymes for digestion and helps the liver produce bile. It also stimulates the intestines to help move food through the digestive tract.

Sometimes a test for gastrin is done after eating a high-protein diet or after receiving an injection of the digestive hormone secretin into a vein. This is called an intravenous (I.V.) secretin test.

Why It Is Done

A gastrin test may be done to:

How To Prepare

Before having the gastrin test:

• Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
• Do not eat for 12 hours before the test.
• You can drink as much water as you want up to 1 hour before the test.

Be sure to tell your doctor about all the nonprescription and prescription medicines you take. Be sure to mention any acid-reducing medicines you take, such as Pepcid (famotidine), Prilosec (omeprazole), or Tums. You may need to stop taking some medicines before this test.

How It Is Done

A health professional takes a blood sample, usually from the arm.

For a secretin test, a blood sample is taken. Then the digestive hormone secretin is injected into a vein in your arm. More blood samples are taken at the time of the injection and then every few minutes for about half an hour after the injection.

How It Feels

When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.

Risks

There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.

Results

Results are usually available in 1 to 2 days.

Normal

Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.

High levels

High gastrin levels may be caused by: