Glucagon
| Category | Biochemistry >> Endocrinology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Glucagon is a naturally occurring 29 amino acid hormone produced by the pancreatic islet α-cells. Glucagon is generally considered to be a counter-regulatory hormone to insulin. In the rare pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (NET) called glucagonoma, glucagon is secreted in excess. Therefore, plasma glucagon measurements can be used in the biochemical diagnosis of glucagonomas. Glucagon is measured as part of the Gut Hormone profile. |
| Clinical Indications |
Glucagonoma: hyperglycaemia refractory to insulin, skin lesions, diarrhoea and stomatitis Suspected neuroendocrine tumour |
| Reference range | 0-50 pmol/L |
| Sample & container required | See Gut Hormones |
| Sample volume | See Gut Hormones |
| Turnaround time | 3 weeks |