Pepsinogen A Test - Assess Stomach Health & Gastric Cancer Risk
Pepsinogen A is a substance produced by cells in the stomach lining that is converted into pepsin, an important enzyme for protein digestion. A blood test measuring fasting pepsinogen A (fS-Pepsinogen A) assesses the condition of the gastric mucosa and the stomach's ability to produce acid. It is particularly useful for detecting signs of chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, Helicobacter pylori infection, and even early indicators of stomach cancer risk.
Why Test Pepsinogen A?
This test is valuable if you experience upper abdominal discomfort, heartburn, or suspected gastritis. It is also relevant for people with a history of stomach ulcers, long-term H. pylori infection, or a family history of stomach cancer. Testing pepsinogen A provides a non-invasive way to evaluate stomach function and may support early detection of atrophic gastritis or gastric malignancy.
What Do High Pepsinogen A Levels Mean?
High pepsinogen A levels may be linked to increased stomach acid production and can be seen in rare conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, where tumours cause the stomach to produce excessive acid. Elevated levels should be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other gastric markers.
What Do Low Pepsinogen A Levels Mean?
Low pepsinogen A levels suggest gastric mucosal atrophy — thinning of the stomach lining — commonly associated with chronic gastritis and potentially an increased risk of stomach cancer. Low values warrant further investigation, especially if combined with H. pylori infection or a family history of gastric cancer.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
- Heartburn or acid reflux
- Nausea and bloating
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
Who Should Get Tested?
- People with upper abdominal discomfort, heartburn, or suspected gastritis
- Those with a history of stomach ulcers or recurrent H. pylori infection
- Individuals with a family history or genetic risk of stomach cancer
- Anyone with unexplained digestive symptoms linked to stomach acid or mucosal damage
How to Prepare for Your Test
This test requires fasting — do not eat or drink anything except water before the blood draw. The analysis is performed twice per month with a typical result time of around 15 days. Bring valid ID to the sampling clinic.
Order Your Blood Test
Test your Pepsinogen A levels with an accredited Swedish laboratory. Results within days, reviewed by Wellth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is atrophic gastritis?
Is pepsinogen A a cancer screening tool?
How often is the analysis performed?
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Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
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The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.