Chymotrypsin, Stool
Use
Chymotrypsin in stool is measured to assess pancreatic exocrine function, helping to evaluate patients with suspected pancreatic insufficiency or malabsorption. It provides an indirect assessment of the pancreas’s ability to secrete digestive enzymes such as chymotrypsin, aiding in the diagnosis of maldigestive states.
Special Instructions
Patients receiving pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy should discontinue the enzymes at least five days before stool collection to avoid interference with test results.
Limitations
This assay is enzymatic/spectrophotometric and measures fecal chymotrypsin activity; false results may occur if patients are on pancreatic enzyme supplements. The test was developed and validated by Quest Diagnostics under CLIA regulations and has not been cleared or approved by the FDA.
Methodology
Other (Enzymatic/Spectrophotometric)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 25375-7
- 25375-7
Result Turnaround Time
5-18 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
1 g
Minimum Volume
0.5 gram
Container
Sterile leak proof stool container
Collection Instructions
Collect 1 g random stool in sterile leak proof container, ship refrigerated.
Patient Preparation
Discontinue pancreatic enzymes at least 5 days before collection.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |
