Pepsinogen A (fS-Pepsinogen A) is a precursor of the enzyme pepsin, produced by chief cells in the gastric mucosa. It is a biomarker used to assess gastric function and health, particularly in cases of suspected mucosal damage or changes, such as chronic atrophic gastritis. Pepsinogen A is normally released into the blood in small amounts, but levels can be altered in diseases affecting the stomach.
Pepsinogen A is produced primarily in the corpus of the stomach, and its levels can be affected by conditions such as inflammation, atrophy, or increased acid production. A pepsinogen A assay can also be combined with pepsinogen C to provide a more comprehensive picture of the condition of the stomach.
The importance of fS-Pepsinogen A as a biomarker
fS-Pepsinogen A is used in various clinical contexts, including to:
- Identify chronic atrophic gastritis, especially in the corpus of the stomach.
- Assess the risk of gastric cancer in patients with mucosal lesions.
- Investigate long-term infections with Helicobacter pylori and its effects on the gastric mucosa.
- Monitor gastric function in patients with a history of peptic ulcers or other related diseases.
Pepsinogen A and gastric health
fS-Pepsinogen A is an important marker for identifying atrophy and other pathological changes in stomach. Low levels may indicate atrophy of the mucosa, which in turn reduces acid production and may increase the risk of conditions such as pernicious anemia and stomach cancer.
Areas of use for fS-Pepsinogen A
Diagnosis of conditions in the stomach:
- Chronic gastritis: When atrophic gastritis or other mucosal changes are suspected.
- Helicobacter pylori infection: Complement to other tests to assess long-term effects of the infection.
- Increased risk of stomach cancer: Screening of individuals at high risk, especially in atrophic gastritis.
- Peptic ulcer disease: Investigation of mucosal function and acid production.
How is fS-Pepsinogen A analyzed?
Analysis of fS-Pepsinogen A is performed through a blood sample taken after fasting. The sample is analyzed using methods such as:
- ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay)
- Immunochemical techniques
The sample should be taken under standardized conditions to ensure reliable results.
Interpretation of fS-Pepsinogen A test results
- Normal levels: Indicates a healthy gastric mucosa without significant atrophy or inflammation.
- Low levels: Indicates atrophic gastritis, decreased acid production, or damage to chief cells in the stomach.
- High levels: May indicate increased acid production or other conditions affecting the stomach, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.