Malabsorption Evaluation Panel, Feces
Use
The Malabsorption Evaluation Panel is utilized for the assessment of patients suspected to have malabsorption conditions. This test is significant in evaluating cases of chronic diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, or nutritional deficiencies. It helps differentiate between causes like inflammatory conditions, pancreatic insufficiency, and osmotic diarrhea. Moreover, it is employed to detect protein-losing enteropathy that could be linked to underlying malabsorption conditions. As a comprehensive stool-based assessment, it provides insights into GI function directly, by evaluating the levels of calprotectin, pancreatic elastase, and the presence of reducing substances, which collectively aid in the diagnosis and management of various malabsorption scenarios.
Special Instructions
To order this test, ensure the correct completion of the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request form when not ordering electronically. Specimen collection must follow specific guidelines, including using the Malabsorption Panel (T920) supplies for stool collection and prompt freezing of samples post-collection to maintain integrity.
Limitations
This panel is designed to identify the presence and potential causes of malabsorption but does not specifically diagnose the exact etiology. Certain factors such as improper specimen handling and heterogeneous composition of fecal material can introduce variability in test results. Furthermore, testing cannot be appended to previously collected specimens and must involve freshly collected and immediately processed samples. The diversity in malabsorption causes necessitates corroborative evaluations and clinical diagnostics for the accurate identification and management of the condition.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 101803-5
- 11060-1
- 9407-8
- 38445-3
- 25907-7
Result Turnaround Time
4-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
18 g
Minimum Volume
5 g
Container
Malabsorption kit or 2 small stool containers
Collection Instructions
Collect a fresh, random fecal specimen, no preservatives. Split specimen equally between 2 small containers. Label one small container with the A1AF and UREDF sample collection labels. Label the other small container with the CALPR, ELASF sample collection label. Freeze immediately.
Causes for Rejection
Urine and feces mixed, Specimens collected from diapers, Feces collected in any preservative or fixative
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Frozen | 7 days |