Stomach acid test - Overview

Alternative Names

Gastric acid secretion test

Definition of Stomach acid test:

The stomach acid test is used to measure the quantity and acidity of stomach contents.

How the test is performed:

After not eating for a period of time, fluid is all that remains in the stomach. This fluid can be removed via a tube inserted into the stomach through the esophagus (food pipe).

To test the ability of cells in the stomach to release acid, gastrin may be injected just under the skin, into a muscle, or into a vein. The stomach contents are then removed and analyzed.

How to prepare for the test:

You will be asked not to eat or drink for 4 - 6 hours before the test.

How the test will feel:

You may notice some discomfort or a gagging feeling 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 check if anti-ulcer medications are working
To check if material is coming back up from the small intestine
To test for the cause of ulcers

Stomach acid test

Reviewed last on: 11/11/2010
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Scubert ML, Kaunitz JD. Gastric secretion. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010:chap 49.

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