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Official Description

Gastrin after secretin stimulation

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 82938 refers to a specific laboratory test known as the gastrin after secretin stimulation test. This test is designed to measure the levels of gastrin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in the digestive process. Gastrin is produced by G-cells located in the gastric mucosa, which is the lining of the stomach. The secretion of gastrin is primarily stimulated by the presence of food in the stomach, leading to the release of gastric acid, which is essential for digestion. Additionally, gastrin influences other digestive organs; it prompts the pancreas to release digestive enzymes, stimulates the liver to produce bile, and enhances intestinal motility, thereby facilitating the digestive process. The gastrin after secretin stimulation test is particularly valuable in diagnosing various gastrointestinal conditions. It is often utilized to identify tumors located in the pancreas and small intestine, a condition known as G-cell hyperplasia, pernicious anemia, and to investigate the underlying causes of recurrent peptic ulcers. The procedure involves obtaining a blood sample through venipuncture, which is performed at the time of secretin injection and subsequently at intervals of 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes post-injection. The serum collected is then analyzed using a quantitative chemiluminescent immunoassay, a sensitive method that allows for precise measurement of gastrin levels in the blood.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The gastrin after secretin stimulation test is indicated for several specific medical conditions and diagnostic purposes. The following are the primary indications for performing this test:

  • Diagnosis of Pancreatic and Small Intestinal Tumors - The test is utilized to detect the presence of tumors in the pancreas and small intestine, which may secrete excessive amounts of gastrin.
  • G-cell Hyperplasia - This condition involves an abnormal increase in the number of G-cells in the stomach lining, leading to elevated gastrin levels.
  • Pernicious Anemia - The test may be performed to evaluate gastrin levels in patients suspected of having pernicious anemia, a condition that affects the absorption of vitamin B12.
  • Recurrent Peptic Ulcers - The test helps in determining the underlying causes of recurrent peptic ulcers, which may be related to abnormal gastrin secretion.

2. Procedure

The gastrin after secretin stimulation test involves a series of procedural steps to ensure accurate measurement of gastrin levels. The following outlines the key steps involved in the procedure:

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation - Prior to the test, the patient may be instructed to fast for a specific period to ensure that the results are not influenced by recent food intake. It is essential to follow any pre-test instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
  • Step 2: Administration of Secretin - The procedure begins with the administration of secretin, a digestive hormone, via injection. This hormone stimulates the release of gastrin from the G-cells in the stomach.
  • Step 3: Blood Sample Collection - Blood samples are collected at multiple time points: immediately at the time of secretin injection, and then at 5, 10, 15, and 30 minutes post-injection. Each sample is obtained through venipuncture, which involves inserting a needle into a vein to draw blood.
  • Step 4: Serum Testing - The collected serum samples are then subjected to analysis using a quantitative chemiluminescent immunoassay. This method allows for the precise measurement of gastrin levels in the blood, providing valuable diagnostic information.

3. Post-Procedure

After the gastrin after secretin stimulation test is completed, patients may be monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions to the secretin injection. There are typically no specific post-procedure care requirements, and patients can usually resume their normal activities shortly after the test. However, it is advisable for patients to follow any additional instructions provided by their healthcare provider regarding follow-up care or further testing based on the results of the gastrin levels measured during the procedure.

Short Descr GASTRIN TEST
Medium Descr GASTRIN AFTER SECRETIN STIMULATION
Long Descr Gastrin after secretin stimulation
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
CLIA Waived (QW) No
APC Status Indicator Conditionally packaged laboratory tests
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T1H - Lab tests - other (non-Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 233 - Laboratory - Chemistry and Hematology
90 Reference (outside) laboratory: when laboratory procedures are performed by a party other than the treating or reporting physician or other qualified health care professional, the procedure may be identified by adding modifier 90 to the usual procedure number.
Date
Action
Notes
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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