What is Peptest
Why we detect and measure pepsin
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What is pepsin?
Pepsin, which originates from the Greek word for digestion, is the enzyme responsible for the digestion of protein. More specifically, pepsin is a protease originating from pepsinogen secreted into gastric juice from chief cells and is only found in the stomach.
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Can pepsin be dangerous?
The mucous-producing
lining of the stomach protects it from auto digestion by pepsin. However, if
pepsin refluxes into the oesophagus and beyond, the tissue lining, particularly
the surface cells of the larynx and airways, can be severely damaged. The
stomach mucous-producing lining protects it from auto digestion by pepsin.
However, if pepsin refluxes into the oesophagus and beyond, it can be very
damaging as the tissue lining is more sensitive, especially the surface cells
of the larynx and airways. -
Why is it important to detect pepsin?
Clinical measurement of pepsin is important as it can give an objective assessment of the presence of reflux in a patient and help to make a diagnosis so the patient can start their acid reflux treatment. Evidence shows that, compared to acid alone, pepsin is damaging to the oesophagus and laryngeal
tissue.
Why diagnosis of Reflux is important
Continuous, untreated gastro-oesophageal reflux disease or laryngopharangeal reflux disease can lead to a very poor quality of life and may also lead to serious problems, such as damage to the oesophagus, oesophageal cancer and cancer of the larynx.
It is dangerous to receive acid reflux treatment without getting confirmation that symptoms are indeed caused by reflux.
Taking medication when it is not needed can cause long-term health problems and may mask a serious problem.
Don’t take anti-reflux medication for months or years without understanding the serious risks
How to take a Peptest in your home
Diagnosing your reflux at home is simple with Peptest. Just follow the steps outlined in this video to receive your diagnosis. If you are diagnosed with reflux, you can then begin the appropriate process for reflux treatment.
Peptest for medical professionals
Want to offer non-invasive methods to acid reflux testing at your clinic? Get in touch to
join registered clinicians around Australia and New Zealand who offer pepsin testing using Peptest.