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Serum or plasma mass concentration of gastrin (fasting)

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

This test measures the amount of gastrin, a hormone produced by cells in the stomach lining, in your blood. It helps diagnose conditions affecting stomach acid production or Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Quick summary

["Fasting gastrin levels help identify rare but serious stomach disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30109-3
Short code
EME Gast-mCnc
Synonyms
EME Gast-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent stomach pain, diarrhea, or unexplained ulcers, especially if they suggest conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (a tumor causing excessive stomach acid). It may also be used to monitor treatment for known gastrin-secreting tumors.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to fast (no food or drink, except water) for 10–12 hours before the test. Avoid smoking and caffeine on the day of testing. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, but fasting may extend your appointment time.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are interpreted by your doctor based on your symptoms, medical history, and other tests. Elevated levels may indicate excess stomach acid or gastrin-secreting tumors, while normal levels help rule out these conditions.

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

Fasting Gastrin Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does It Mean If My Results Are Abnormal?
High fasting gastrin levels may signal Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or other rare tumors that produce too much gastrin, leading to severe stomach acid overproduction. Your doctor will guide further testing or treatment based on results.
What If I Have No Symptoms But My Levels Are High?
Even without symptoms, high levels may warrant further evaluation (e.g., imaging or biopsies) to check for tumors or other causes. Follow-up may include additional blood tests or scans to investigate.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
Your doctor will determine frequency based on your diagnosis, symptoms, or treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a known gastrin-secreting condition or are on long-term acid-suppressing medication.
  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