This information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical treatment. You should speak to your physician or make an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about this information or your medical condition. en Español | Complete disclaimer

Secretin Stimulation Test (SST)

What is a Secretin Stimulation Test?

This test measures the ability of the pancreas to respond to secretin, a hormone produced by the small intestine when partially digested food has moved into the intestine from the stomach. Your doctor has requested this test which will indicate the response of Gastrin, a naturally occurring hormone, to the injection of a medication called Secretin. During the test, a catheter will be placed in your arm to take blood samples and infuse the medication Secretin. The stimulation test lasts approximately two hours and is performed in the GI Physiology Laboratory in the Medical Procedures Unit.

How do I prepare for this test?

A Gastric Acid Study is routinely performed before this test will be ordered. Please consult with your ordering physician and health insurance company to insure coverage. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE COMPANY BEFORE SCHEDULING THE TEST . NOT ALL INSURANCE COMPANIES COVER THE COST(S) FOR THIS TEST. IF WE DO NOT HAVE INSURANCE AUTHORIZATION PRIOR TO THE TEST, YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT.

To ensure a successful test please follow these guidelines. Discontinue using Nexium, Protonox, Aciphex, Prilosec and Prevacid five days before this test. Do not take Tagamet, Zantac, Pepcid or Axid within 24 hours of the test. To reduce the risk of complications the stomach must be empty. Please do not have anything to eat or drink after 10 pm the night before your test. Do not smoke and wear comfortable clothing when you come in for the test. If you have diabetes, please take ½ of morning dose of Insulin. Total test time is 2 ½ hours.

If you are unable to keep your appointment or have questions about the test or medications, please call the GI Physiology Lab in the MPU at 734-936-9250, option 2.

U-M Health System Related Sites:
Department of Internal Medicine Division of Gastroenterology
Directions to the Medical Procedures Unit
Instructions for Patients with Diabetes Having Outpatient Tests (on insulin)
Instructions for Patients with Diabetes Having Outpatient Tests (no insulin)

Other Related Web Sites:
National Library of Medicine from the National Institutes of Health
Your Digestive System and How it Works

Information provided by UMHS Medical Procedures Unit staff, May 2005