MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: VIP

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VIP

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Blood test

Alternative names Return to top

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide

Definition Return to top

A blood test that measures the amount of VIP (vasoactive intestinal polypeptide).

How the test is performed Return to top

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.

A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

For an infant or young child:
The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Fast for 4 hours before the test.

For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

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)

How the test will feel Return to top

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed Return to top

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

Normal Values Return to top

Less than 75 pg/ml (picograms per millilter) is normal.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Higher-than-normal VIP may indicate the presence of a VIP-secreting tumor (VIPoma).

What the risks are Return to top

The risks associated with having blood drawn are slight:

excessive bleeding
fainting or feeling light-headed
hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
multiple punctures to locate veins

Special considerations Return to top

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Update Date: 7/28/2003

Updated by: Stephanie Fish, M.D., Division of Endocrinology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.