High Gastrin 17 Levels: Does It Mean Stomach Cancer?

Gastrin 17 is a biomarker often used in early cancer screening, but it is not specific to stomach cancer. Elevated levels of Gastrin 17 do not necessarily indicate the presence of gastric cancer. In fact, several non-cancerous conditions can also lead to abnormal levels of this hormone.

Conditions such as gastritis can cause fluctuations in Gastrin 17 levels. High acid production with elevated gastrin levels is commonly seen in gastrinoma, a type of neuroendocrine tumor. Additionally, excessive gastric mucosal formation, residual or excluded gastric antrum, and chronic kidney failure may also lead to increased gastrin levels. In some cases, if gastrin levels remain high after kidney function recovers, it may indicate atrophic gastritis. Low or no acid production with high gastrin levels, on the other hand, can be associated with peptic ulcers, Type A atrophic gastritis, vagotomy, and hyperthyroidism. Enhanced gastrin response is also observed in achalasia and duodenal ulcers.

In gastric cancer, changes in gastrin levels depend on the location of the tumor. Serum gastrin levels are typically elevated in patients with gastric body cancer, while those with gastric antrum cancer often experience reduced gastrin secretion. Patients with chronic renal failure may develop gastric ulcers due to decreased inactivation of gastrin by the kidneys. If Gastrin 17 levels are found to be abnormal, an endoscopic examination is recommended to rule out the possibility of gastric cancer.

The primary method for diagnosing gastric cancer involves clinical evaluation and endoscopy. If a patient experiences persistent upper abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, anemia, or black stools, a gastroscopy should be performed promptly. During the procedure, tissue samples can be collected for histopathological analysis to confirm the presence of cancer. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial in improving patient outcomes and extending survival rates. Therefore, individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek medical evaluation without delay.