Pancreatic Elastase, Feces

Use

The Pancreatic Elastase test is useful for evaluating patients with suspected exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), indicated by symptoms such as unexplained diarrhea, constipation, steatorrhea, flatulence, weight loss, upper abdominal pain, and food intolerances. It is also used for monitoring exocrine pancreatic function in conditions like cystic fibrosis, diabetes mellitus, or chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic elastase measurement in stool is a preferred initial test for evaluating pancreatic disease and malabsorption symptoms. It provides a practical alternative to the cumbersome 72-hour fecal fat test, as reduced stool elastase concentrations indicate diminished pancreatic enzyme production, which is suggestive of EPI.