Test Overview A gastrin test measures the level of the hormone
Gastrin also has minor effects on the pancreas liver intestines enzymes bile 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 non-prescription and prescription medicines you take. Be sure to mention any acid-reducing medicines you take, such as Pepcid (famotidine), Losec (omeprazole), or Tums. You may need to stop taking some medicines before this test.
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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.
Watch 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:
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Current as of: April 30, 2024
