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Gastrin-Releasing Peptide, Serum/Plasma — Analyte Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures gastrin-releasing peptide in blood. It may help evaluate suspected neuroendocrine tumors and is sometimes used alongside other tumor markers.

Quick summary

["GRP is a blood marker that can be elevated in some neuroendocrine tumors, but abnormal results require clinical interpretation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99102-6
Short code
GRP SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GRP SerPl-aCnc
Category
liver
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

What is this test?

This test measures gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP), a peptide produced by the body. GRP is mainly associated with cells in the digestive and nervous systems, including neuroendocrine cells.

Why might I need this test?

GRP may be measured when a neuroendocrine tumor is suspected or when a healthcare professional is monitoring a person with a previously diagnosed tumor. It is often interpreted with symptoms, imaging, and other laboratory tests.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and GRP is measured using a laboratory assay. The laboratory may specify whether serum or plasma should be used, so follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

How do I prepare for the test?

Special preparation is not usually required. Your healthcare professional may ask you to fast or may request that you pause certain medicines, because medications and other factors can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated GRP level may occur with neuroendocrine tumors, but it is not specific to these tumors. Other conditions and some medications can also affect GRP, so an abnormal result should be interpreted together with symptoms, imaging, and other test findings.

Short name

Gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP)

Frequently asked questions

What does a high GRP level mean?
It may support further evaluation for a neuroendocrine tumor, but it does not diagnose one by itself. Benign conditions and medication effects can also cause elevated levels.
Is GRP the same as gastrin?
No. GRP and gastrin are different peptides, although both can be related to neuroendocrine cells and are sometimes measured during the same evaluation.
Does the GRP test require fasting?
Fasting is not generally required, but the laboratory's instructions should be followed. Tell your healthcare professional about any medicines you take, especially acid-suppressing medicines.
  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