Stomach acid test
Key points
- The stomach acid test is a test that assesses the quantity and acidity of stomach contents.
- After a period of fasting, gastric residue is all that remains in the stomach.
- You will be asked to consume no food or liquid for four to six hours before the test.
- The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust.
Alternative names
Gastric acid secretion test
Definition
The stomach acid test is a test that assesses the quantity and acidity of stomach contents.
How the test is performed
After a period of fasting, gastric residue is all that remains in the stomach. This fluid can be removed via a tube inserted through the esophagus.
To test the capacity of the parietal cells in the stomach to secrete acid, gastrin may be injected subcutaneously (just under the skin), intramuscularly, or intravenously. The stomach contents are then removed and analyzed.
Another test involves insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Enough insulin is given subcutaneously or intravenously to cause the blood sugar to decrease, which causes the vagus nerve to stimulate the release of gastrin. After a short time, the stomach contents are removed and analyzed.
How to prepare for the test
You will be asked to consume no food or liquid for four to six hours before the test.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
- Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
- Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
- Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
- Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
How the test will feel
You may notice some discomfort and/or a gagging sensation as the tube is passed through your nose or mouth and down your esophagus.
Why the test is performed
This test may be used for a number of reasons:
- To test for the cause of ulcers
- To detect duodenal regurgitation
- To evaluate the cause of malabsorption
- To assess the adequacy of anti-ulcer medications
- To evaluate secretion of gastrin
Normal Values
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.