Ordering the Gastrin Blood Test
The Gastrin Blood Test measures the amount of gastrin, a hormone that helps control stomach acid production. This test is often ordered to help find the cause of ongoing stomach pain, ulcers, or symptoms like bloating and frequent burping. Interestingly, high gastrin levels can sometimes point to rare conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which may not show obvious symptoms at first.
Ordering this test can help you and your doctor:
- Identify if your stomach is making too much or too little acid
- Check for tumors that may cause high gastrin levels
- Monitor treatment for certain stomach or digestive conditions
- Track changes in gastrin levels over time
- Rule out other causes of stomach discomfort or digestive issues
Who Might Benefit from Gastrin Hormone Screening
People who have frequent stomach pain, unexplained nausea, or ulcers that do not heal may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been taking antacids for months but still feels burning in their stomach might find out if their body is making too much gastrin.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Ongoing stomach ulcers that do not respond to regular treatment
- Frequent bloating, burping, or indigestion without a clear cause
- Family history of rare stomach tumors or related conditions
- Unexplained weight loss along with stomach symptoms
- People with chronic diarrhea and stomach pain, as these symptoms can sometimes be linked to high gastrin levels
This test can help pinpoint if your symptoms are related to abnormal gastrin production, which can guide your doctor in choosing the right treatment or next steps. Delaying this test may make it harder to find the cause of your symptoms, which could lead to longer periods of discomfort or missed early signs of treatable conditions.
Preparing for Gastrin Hormone Lab Analysis
You will need to fast for 10-12 hours before your blood is drawn, and only water is allowed during this time. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your results are as helpful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Gastrin Blood Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Measures | Low and High Levels of Gastrin Blood Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastrin (Serum) | 0-100 | Gastrin is a hormone made in the stomach that tells your body to make acid for digestion. This test checks how much gastrin is in your blood to help find out if your stomach is making too much or too little acid. |
High levels mean your body may be making too much stomach acid, which can be linked to ulcers or rare tumors.
Low levels mean your stomach may not be making enough acid, which can affect digestion and nutrient absorption. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Gastrin Blood Test FAQ
Is there Gastrin Blood Test testing near me?
You can find nearby locations for Gastrin Blood Test collection using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. If you have ongoing stomach symptoms, having a convenient site makes it easier to get tested quickly and avoid delays in finding answers.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the Gastrin Blood Test includes all fees, including sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it if you have unexplained stomach pain or ulcers that are not improving, as it can help pinpoint the cause.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3-6 months if you are being monitored for changes in gastrin levels or after starting treatment. Regular testing helps track how your body responds to treatment and can catch changes early.
How accurate is the test?
The Gastrin Blood Test uses chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) technology, which provides a specificity of 98% and a sensitivity of 97% for detecting gastrin levels. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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