MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Stomach acid test

Medical Encyclopedia

Stomach acid test

The stomach acid test is a test to evaluate the capacity of the parietal cells in the stomach to secrete acid. The test is performed by aspirating fluid through a tube that is inserted down the esophagus to the stomach. This test may be used to test for the cause of ulcers, to detect duodenal regurgitation, to evaluate the cause of malabsorption, to assess the adequacy of anti-ulcer medications, and to evaluate secretion of gastrin.

Update Date: 10/18/2006

Updated by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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