Stomach Acid Stimulation Test
Alternate Names : Gastric Acid Stimulation Test, Stomach Acid Secretion Test, Gastric Acid Secretion Test
The stomach acid stimulation test is used to evaluate the ability of the stomach to secrete acid. Stomach acid helps break down food so the body can use it.
A healthy stomach has about one million times more acid than water. This amount of acid is needed to digest food properly. There are some conditions that can cause the stomach to make too little or too much acid.
Who is a candidate for the test?
This test is mainly used to evaluate:
the cause of ulcers, such as peptic ulcers
the response of ulcers to treatment
the cause of a high level of gastrin, an enzyme in the blood
How is the test performed?
A small tube is inserted through the nose and into the stomach. A special medication is then given by injection. This medication normally causes the stomach to make acid. After the medication has taken effect, a small amount of stomach fluid is removed. This fluid is sent to the lab for analysis. The amount of acid made by the stomach in response to the medication can be measured.
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