PEPSINOGEN 1 (PG1) TEST
2,700 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
PG1, Tumor Marker
Purpose
The PG1 Test measures the level of pepsinogen 1, a digestive enzyme precursor produced by the stomach’s fundic glands. It serves as a non-invasive biomarker for evaluating gastric mucosal health, particularly in the upper (corpus) region of the stomach.
This test is important because low PG1 levels often indicate atrophic gastritis, a condition where the stomach lining becomes thinned and inflamed. Chronic atrophic gastritis is a known risk factor for gastric cancer, especially when caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or autoimmune disorders. As such, PG1 testing plays a critical role in early detection and cancer risk assessment.
Other tests that can be done alongside the test include, PG2 test, the helicobacter pylori antigen or antibody test, and fecal occult blood test (FOBT). By combining PG1 testing with these other diagnostic tools, healthcare providers can better stratify gastric cancer risk, monitor gastric mucosal changes, and make informed decisions about treatment or surveillance strategies.
Patient Preparation
The patient should fast for 10-12 hours before sample collection. The patient should also avoid antacids or other medications that affect stomach acidity or gastrointestinal function for at least 48 hours before sample collection.
Samples
3 ml with a minimum volume of 1.0 ml of serum collected in an SST tube. Transfer separated serum to a plastic transport tube and freeze immediately.
Method
Chemoluminescent immunoassay (CLIA).
Reference Range
23.00–110.64 ng/mL.
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours of receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
The PG1 Test helps evaluate the health of the stomach lining by measuring the level of pepsinogen 1 in the blood. Here are some possible outcomes of the test;
- High PG1 levels may indicate increased stomach acid activity or stimulation of the gastric glands
- Low PG1 levels may indicate gastric mucosal atrophy, particularly in the corpus of the stomach, and may signal an increased risk of gastric cancer.
The PG1 test, especially when interpreted with the PG2 level and PG1/PG2 ratio, provides a non-invasive method to detect gastric diseases early, track disease progression, and determine the need for further gastrointestinal investigation.