Faecal pancreatic specific elastase (stool or blood)
Pancreatic-specific elastase belongs to a family of protein-degradingenzymes which are produced by the pancreas to maintain normal digestive function.
Faecal pancreatic elastase is a marker of decreased pancreatic function resulting from any pancreatic dysfunction (whether inflammation, tumour, diabetes, or removal of the pancreas). Pancreatic enzyme replacement does not affect the value.
What does the test show?
The faecal pancreatic specific elastase test measures the amount of elastase 1 enzyme produced by the pancreas in a stool sample. It can be used to diagnose pancreatic diseases associated with insufficient digestive enzyme production, as well as the condition of the pancreatic duct. Pancreatic elastase 1 passes through the digestive tract intact, allowing enzyme levels to be determined painlessly in the stool. The blood test provides information on stagnation of pancreatic gastric juice and blockage of the duct.
The content of faecal pancreatic elastase is 1 level can already detect mild pancreatic insufficiency.
In which cases is it recommended to perform the test?
The test is usually ordered if pancreatic dysfunction or inflammation is suspected. Symptoms may include:
- belt-like pain around the navel
- abdominal pain
- abdominal tightness, bloating
- nausea, vomiting
- jaundice
What sample is needed for the test?
It is important to note that diarrheal stools are not suitable for testing and sampling should not happen during menstruation! The sample must be taken using a special sampling device, which can be requested at the reception of our Clinics.
What can the result indicate?
The test is for screening purposes, the stool test gives two types of results:
- >200 ug/g – normal, which means that no deterioration in pancreatic function can be detected
- <200 ug/g – decreased, which indicates abnormal functioning of the pancreas
The stool test result is suitable for monitoring therapy or adjusting medication, it gives an accurate numerical value below 500 ug/g of stool. We also give an accurate value when measuring pancreatic specific elastase from the blood.
What to do after the test?
The test alone cannot diagnose any disease, and in all cases consult an internist or haematologist to determine the exact diagnosis and required therapy.