Gastrin Test
Also known as: Serum Gastrin Test, Fasting Gastrin Level, Gastrin Blood Test, Gastrin Assay, Serum Gastrin Level Test
Gastrin Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,404. Uses Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA) on Serum samples. Results in Same day (for samples received on Monday or Thursday by 11 AM). Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The Gastrin Test is performed to measure the concentration of gastrin hormone in the blood. This test is primarily used to help diagnose Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (gastrinoma), investigate unexplained recurrent peptic ulcers, evaluate patients with suspected achlorhydria or pernicious anemia, monitor patients with known gastrointestinal conditions, and assist in the differential diagnosis of conditions causing elevated gastric acid production.
- Test Code
- 653
- CPT Code
- 82941
- ICD Code
- E16.4
- Price
- ₹1,404
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Same day (for samples received on Monday or Thursday by 11 AM)
- Fasting Required
- Yes
- Method
- Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)
Sample Collection
Patient must fast overnight (8-12 hours) before sample collection. Discontinue PPI medications (Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazole, Rabeprazole) 7 days prior to sampling with physician consent. Avoid calcium supplements and H2-receptor blockers as advised by the treating physician.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
Blood is drawn via standard venipuncture technique from the patient's arm. Approximately 2 mL of blood is collected into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The sample is handled aseptically throughout the process.
Report Delivery
The collected sample must be separated, and the serum must be immediately frozen. The sample must be shipped frozen. DO NOT THAW the sample during transit. Apply gentle pressure at the venipuncture site to minimize bruising.
Timeline: Same day (for samples received on Monday or Thursday by 11 AM)
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Gastrin Test is performed to measure the concentration of gastrin hormone in the blood. This test is primarily used to help diagnose Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (gastrinoma), investigate unexplained recurrent peptic ulcers, evaluate patients with suspected achlorhydria or pernicious anemia, monitor patients with known gastrointestinal conditions, and assist in the differential diagnosis of conditions causing elevated gastric acid production.
How to Prepare
- Overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is mandatory before sample collection
- Discontinue PPI medications 7 days before sampling with prior physician consent
- Sample must be collected in a Serum Separator Tube (SST)
- Minimum 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum required
- Serum must be separated and frozen immediately after collection
- Ship frozen. DO NOT THAW during transit
- Sample collection days: Monday and Thursday before 11 AM for same-day reporting
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"Elevated fasting serum gastrin levels warrant further investigation, including a secretin stimulation test, to rule out gastrinoma. Patients on long-term proton pump inhibitors may show falsely elevated gastrin levels. Always correlate with clinical presentation and gastric pH analysis before arriving at a diagnosis."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic sample
- Sample not shipped frozen or thawed during transit
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL serum)
- Sample collected in incorrect tube type (non-SST)
- Sample received without proper labeling or requisition form
Understanding Your Results
Fasting gastrin levels within the normal reference range suggest normal G-cell function and absence of gastrinoma.
Range: < 100 pg/mL
Mild to moderate elevation may be seen in chronic atrophic gastritis, pernicious anemia, chronic renal failure, gastric outlet obstruction, or due to PPI use. A secretin stimulation test may be warranted for further evaluation.
Range: 100-1000 pg/mL
Markedly elevated fasting gastrin levels strongly suggest Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (gastrinoma). Correlation with gastric pH (pH < 2) and imaging studies is recommended for localization of the tumor.
Range: > 1000 pg/mL
Consult your doctor if you experience recurrent abdominal pain, frequent peptic ulcers, chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, persistent bloating, nausea, vomiting, or if you have a family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment of conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome can prevent serious complications.
Limitations
- ⚠This test measures total serum gastrin and does not differentiate between gastrin isoforms (G-17, G-34, big-big gastrin)
- ⚠A single elevated fasting gastrin level is not diagnostic of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and may require confirmatory testing such as a secretin stimulation test
- ⚠PPI use may cause false elevation, requiring discontinuation prior to testing
- ⚠Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, gastric pH, and other diagnostic investigations
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or pain at the venipuncture site
- ●Slight risk of infection at the puncture site
- ●Lightheadedness or dizziness during blood draw
- ●Very rare: excessive bleeding or hematoma formation
Interfering Factors
- ●Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) medications such as Omeprazole, Esomeprazole, Pantoprazole, Lansoprazole, and Rabeprazole may cause falsely elevated gastrin levels
- ●Non-fasting state at the time of blood draw may affect results
- ●H2-receptor antagonists (e.g., Ranitidine, Famotidine) may moderately affect gastrin levels
- ●Calcium infusion or secretin injection prior to testing may interfere
- ●Renal insufficiency may lead to elevated gastrin levels due to decreased clearance
- ●Recent meals or gastric distension can transiently increase gastrin levels
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Gastrin Test | Secretin Stimulation Test | Gastric pH Analysis | Chromogranin A Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Gastrin Test | Used as a confirmatory test when fasting gastrin levels are equivocal. Secretin injection causes a significant rise in gastrin in gastrinoma patients. | Measures the acidity of gastric secretions. A very low gastric pH (< 2) combined with elevated gastrin is suggestive of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. | A general marker for neuroendocrine tumors including gastrinomas. Often used alongside gastrin testing for comprehensive evaluation. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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