Gastric Function Panel 5

The Gastric Function Panel 5 is a focused blood and stool investigation for patients with persistent or unexplained upper gastrointestinal symptoms, such as indigestion, bloating, early satiety, epigastric discomfort, or a history of gastric concerns. It combines direct detection of Helicobacter pylori with markers of gastric mucosal health and intestinal inflammation, giving your clinician a clearer picture of what may be driving your symptoms.

What the panel screens for

• Helicobacter pylori infection: Antibody testing (ANTI-HP) indicates past or present exposure to this common bacterium, while antigen testing (HPAG) detects active infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Together they help distinguish current infection from previous exposure.
• Gastric mucosal status: Pepsinogen I (PG1) and Pepsinogen II (PG2) are proenzymes produced by the stomach. Their levels, and the calculated PG1/PG2 ratio, reflect the health and density of gastric glandular tissue. A reduced ratio can suggest atrophic changes in the gastric lining, which may affect acid production and nutrient absorption.
• Intestinal inflammation: Calprotectin (CP) is a protein released by white blood cells in the gut. Elevated levels indicate active inflammation somewhere in the gastrointestinal tract, helping to differentiate inflammatory conditions from functional digestive complaints.

Why it matters

Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection and gastric mucosal atrophy are important, treatable contributors to long-term digestive discomfort and are recognised risk factors for more serious gastric conditions. Measuring calprotectin alongside these markers helps your clinician determine whether inflammation is present and whether further investigation, such as endoscopy, may be warranted. The panel supports a more targeted approach to diagnosis and management, so you and your doctor can move from uncertainty to a clear, evidence-based plan.