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Serum or Plasma Gastrin Concentration (Quantitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 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 certain gastrointestinal disorders.

Quick summary

["Gastrin levels can signal issues like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome or other stomach-related problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24337-8
Short code
Gas Pnl BldC
Synonyms
Gas Pnl BldC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent stomach pain, diarrhea, or unexplained ulcers. It may also be used to monitor conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare tumor that causes high stomach acid levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw. Inform your provider about any medications, especially those affecting stomach acid.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is taken from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure gastrin concentration using an immunoassay method.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Results are compared to standard ranges, though individual ranges can vary. High levels may indicate conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, while low levels might suggest other gastrointestinal or hormonal issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated gastrin levels often point to Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, where a tumor releases excess gastrin, leading to severe stomach acid overproduction. Low levels can be associated with other conditions affecting stomach function or hormone regulation, such as gastric bypass surgery or certain cancers.

Short name

Gastrin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes high gastrin levels?
High gastrin levels are most commonly linked to Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare tumor in the pancreas or nearby organs. Other possible causes include certain medications (like proton pump inhibitors), chronic atrophic gastritis, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
What does it mean if my gastrin level is low?
Low gastrin levels may suggest conditions like gastric bypass surgery, which reduces stomach acid production, or certain cancers affecting hormone regulation. It can also occur with long-term use of medications that suppress stomach acid.
Can diet affect gastrin levels?
Dietary factors alone typically do not significantly alter gastrin levels. However, certain foods or medications that affect stomach acid may indirectly influence results, so it’s best to follow your provider’s instructions for fasting or avoiding specific foods.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy