Trypsinogen test
Alternative Names: Serum trypsin; Trypsin-like immunoreactivity; Serum trypsinogen; Immunoreactive trypsin
Trypsinogen is a substance that is normally produced in the pancreas and released into the small intestine. Trypsinogen is converted to trypsin. Then it starts the process needed to break down proteins into their building blocks (called amino acids).
A test can be done to measure the amount of trypsinogen in your blood.
Why is the Test Performed?
This test is done to detect diseases of the pancreas. However, it is no better than other tests, such as blood amylase or lipase for acute pancreatitis.
It is also ordered during routine newborn screening tests to check for cystic fibrosis.
How is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture.
The blood is then tested in a laboratory.
Preparation for the Test
There are no special preparations.
How will the Test Feel?
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Trypsinogen test Risks
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling light-headed
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Considerations
Other tests used to detect pancreas diseases may include:
- Serum amylase
- Serum lipase
Normal Results for Trypsinogen test
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Increased levels of trypsinogen may be due to:
- Abnormal production of pancreatic enzymes
- Acute pancreatitis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pancreatic cancer
Low or normal levels may be seen in chronic pancreatitis.
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Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Copyright 2012 A.D.A.M., Inc.
