The secretin stimulation test measures the ability of the pancreas to respond to secretin.

Secretin is a hormone secreted by the small intestines when partially digested food has moved into the intestines from the stomach. This hormone normally stimulates the pancreas to secrete a fluid with a high concentration of bicarbonate. Like an antacid, this fluid neutralizes the acidity of the material from the stomach so that enzymes in the small intestine can function properly in the breakdown and absorption of food.

A tube is passed through the nose into the stomach then into the duodenum (part of the intestine). Secretin is administered and the contents of the duodenal secretions are removed through the tube and analyzed over a period of about 2 hours.

Fast for 12 hours prior to the test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

The tube may produce gagging during placement.

The test is performed to evaluate pancreatic function. People with diseases involving the pancreas such as chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or pancreatic cancer may have abnormal pancreatic function.

The bodies of people with cystic fibrosis form mucous plugs that can obstruct the pancreatic ducts that empty into the small intestines. These plugs prevent neutralization of the food acidity, which ultimately reduces the ability to digest and absorb foods.

Risks are associated with placement of the tube. There is a very small risk of the tube being placed into the bronchi (lungs) rather than the stomach, although correct placement of the tube is verified before the test is performed.