Gastric Function Panel 1

The Gastric Function Panel 1 is a targeted blood test designed for individuals experiencing persistent or unexplained upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as indigestion, bloating, nausea, or abdominal discomfort. It is also valuable for those with a family history of gastric conditions or who are being investigated for anaemia or other systemic issues potentially linked to impaired gastric function. This panel combines serological testing for Helicobacter pylori with the measurement of pepsinogen levels to provide a comprehensive, non-invasive assessment of gastric mucosal health and function.

The panel screens for the following key markers:

Helicobacter pylori antibody (ANTI-HP)
- Detects antibodies produced by the immune system in response to H. pylori infection, a common bacterial cause of chronic gastritis and a major risk factor for peptic ulcers and gastric cancer.

Pepsinogen I (PG1) and Pepsinogen II (PG2)
- Pepsinogens are inactive precursors of pepsin, an enzyme essential for protein digestion. PG1 is produced mainly in the gastric corpus, while PG2 is produced throughout the stomach and in other tissues. Measuring both provides insight into gastric mucosal mass and function.

Pepsinogen I/II ratio (calculated)
- A reduced PG1/PG2 ratio is a recognised marker of atrophic gastritis, a condition where the stomach lining thins and loses function, which can lead to impaired nutrient absorption and increased cancer risk.

This test uses standard serological techniques to measure these biomarkers, offering a convenient and reliable way to assess gastric health without the need for invasive procedures like endoscopy.

Why it matters

Chronic H. pylori infection and atrophic gastritis are often asymptomatic in their early stages but can progress to serious complications, including peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. Identifying H. pylori or monitoring for atrophic changes through this panel provides useful diagnostic information for you and your doctor to support appropriate clinical management. This test does not screen for cancer. By identifying these hidden risks, the Gastric Function Panel 1 empowers you and your doctor to take proactive steps to protect your digestive health.