 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Gastrin
Definition:
Gastrin is the major hormone that regulates acid secretion in the stomach. A gastrin test measures the amount of gastrin in the blood. How the test is performed:
Text Continues Below
Blood is drawn from a vein on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is first cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. After the blood is drawn, the band is removed to restore circulation. Then, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding. For an infant or young child: The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding. How to prepare for the test:
Consult the health care provider if you are using drugs that can interfere with test results. Drugs that can increase gastrin measurements include antacids, H2-blocking agents (such as cimetidine), and proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole). For infants and children: The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
| 
.gif)
