VIP
Alternate Names : Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide
Definition A blood test that measures the amount of VIP (vasoactive intestinal polypeptide).
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is used to confirm the presence of a VIPoma, a tumor that secretes VIP.
VIP is found throughout the body, but in highest concentration in the nervous system and gut. VIP has many functions:
- it may be a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator
- it increases water and electrolyte secretion from the pancreas and gut
- it stimulates the release of hormones from the pancreas, gut, and hypothalamus
- it stimulates breakdown of fat and glycogen
- it stimulates bile flow
- it inhibits gastrin and gastric acid secretion
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