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Glucagon

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Definition:

A glucagon test measures the amount of glucagon in the blood.

How the test is performed:

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic. An elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the vein to swell with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, the area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. A bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any bleeding.

Radioimmunoassay (RIA) is a specific laboratory technique.

How to prepare for the test:

There is no special preparation.

How the test will feel:

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed:

Glucagon levels may be measured in persons who show symptoms of mild diabetes, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), unexplained weight loss, or a particular skin rash (necrolytic migratory erythema).

Glucagon is a hormone that is produced by cells in the pancreas. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels. As the level of blood sugar is decreased, the pancreas releases more glucagon, and vice versa. The hormone acts by stimulating the liver to release glucose.

In a rare syndrome, a pancreatic tumor can produce excess glucagon.

• Review Date: 3/13/2006
• Reviewed By: Robert Hurd, M.D., Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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