What does it mean if gastrin G17 is low, and what should be done?

Low levels of gastrin G17 may be caused by diseases such as gastritis, gastric ulcers, or atrophic gastritis. Treatment should be selected based on the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Gastritis

Gastrin G17 is a hormone produced in the stomach that promotes gastric juice secretion and gastrointestinal motility. Gastritis can damage the gastric mucosa, thereby affecting the secretion of gastrin G17 and leading to reduced levels. Medications such as hydrotalcite chewable tablets or Weiyanning granules may be taken under medical guidance.

2. Gastric Ulcer

Gastric ulcers cause damage to the gastric mucosa, destroying mucosal cells, including those responsible for secreting gastrin G17. Once the gastric mucosa is injured, the secretion of gastrin G17 is affected, resulting in lower levels. Medications such as ilaprazole enteric-coated tablets or omeprazole magnesium enteric-coated tablets may be taken as directed by a physician.

3. Atrophic Gastritis

Atrophic gastritis is a type of chronic gastritis primarily caused by long-term inflammatory stimulation of the gastric mucosa, leading to gradual atrophy, degeneration, and reduction of gastric mucosal epithelial cells, which results in decreased gastrin G17 levels. Treatments may include sucralfate suspension or isoprinosine maleate tablets, taken as prescribed.

In addition to the common causes listed above, low gastrin G17 levels may also result from conditions such as reflux gastritis, duodenal ulcers, or gastric cancer. If patients experience any discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.