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Gastrin, Qualitative (Deprecated/Ambiguous Test Designation)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A qualitative test for gastrin, a hormone that stimulates stomach acid. This legacy designation does not reliably specify the specimen or testing method.

Quick summary

["The test measures whether gastrin is detectable, but the deprecated and ambiguous designation limits interpretation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21360-3
Short code
Deprecated Lamb IgG RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Lamb IgG RAST Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Gastrin is a hormone released by the stomach that helps stimulate digestive acid production. This test is listed as qualitative, meaning it reports whether gastrin is detected rather than providing a reliable numerical concentration.

Why might I need this test?

A gastrin test may be used to help investigate excessive stomach acid, recurrent ulcers, or diarrhea. It may also be considered when a gastrin-producing tumor is suspected, although current quantitative testing is generally more informative.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory specimen is examined for the presence of gastrin. The exact specimen and assay method are not reliably identified in this deprecated, ambiguous designation, so they should be confirmed with the ordering laboratory.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the preparation instructions provided by the ordering clinician or laboratory. Preparation can vary by specimen and may include avoiding certain medicines that suppress stomach acid, but no specific instructions should be assumed from this test slug alone.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Gastrin test

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a standard quantitative gastrin blood test?
Not necessarily. A qualitative test reports detection rather than a dependable measured concentration, and this deprecated designation does not clearly identify the specimen or method.
What symptoms may lead to a gastrin test?
Common reasons for testing include persistent or recurrent ulcers, unexplained diarrhea, reflux symptoms, or other signs of excessive stomach acid.
Do acid-suppressing medicines affect gastrin results?
Yes. Proton pump inhibitors and some other acid-suppressing medicines can increase gastrin, so the healthcare professional should review your medicines before interpreting the result.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy