Pancreatic polypeptide, PP for short, is a mysterious protein produced by the pancreas whose functions are not fully understood. When to do a pancreatic polypeptide test? How to interpret the result? What does its too high concentration in the blood mean?

Pancreatic polypeptide( PP ) is a 36 amino acid long protein produced mainly by the F cells of the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. It belongs to the group of hormones (peptides) of the gastrointestinal tract, similarly to neuropeptide Y (NPY) and peptide YY (PYY). Its functions are not fully understood, but it is known to stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes and contract the gallbladder. Previously, it was also thought to be involved in appetite control as the satiety hormone.

Pancreatic polypeptide secretion is stimulated by nutrients. Its levels increase after a protein-rich meal, on an empty stomach, after exercise, and during hypoglycaemia.

Pancreatic polypeptide was discovered by accident in 1972 by two independent research teams.

Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) - what is the test and how much does it cost?

The determination of the pancreatic polypeptide is performed in venous blood taken from the elbow bend. The test should be performedon an empty stomach, preferably between 6:30 am and 9:00 am .

This is very important as the concentration of pancreatic polypeptide increases several times after a meal.

A test in a commercial laboratory costs about PLN 50.

Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) - how to interpret the test results?

The correct concentration of pancreatic polypeptide should be less than 200 ng / L.

Growth of the pancreatic polypeptide is observed in:

  • pancreatitis
  • cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, e.g. insulinoma and glucagonoma
  • neuroendocrine neoplasms of the pancreas e.g. PPoma
  • diabetes
  • uremia

Pancreatic polypeptide measurement is also usedto assess vagal nerve function .

  • Chronic pancreatitis: diagnosis and treatment
  • Pancreatic cysts - causes, symptoms and treatment
  • Pancreatic cancer - symptoms and treatment of pancreatic cancer
  • Painpancreas - what could it mean? Pancreatic Pain Causes

Category:

Research