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Pancreatic elastase-1 in feces
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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The reference values (norm) of pancreatic elastase-1 in feces are more than 200 μg / g of feces.
Human pancreatic elastase-1 belongs to the family of acidic elastases. It is present in the secretion of the pancreas and feces. The enzyme does not break down when passing through the intestine. Determination of pancreatic elastase-1 in feces is a new non-invasive test for evaluating the exocrine function of the pancreas. Screening of endocrine pancreatic insufficiency is indicated when it is suspected that there is chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis, as well as long-term monitoring of an already identified pancreatic insufficiency in chronic pancreatitis.
To determine the enzyme, the stool is collected for 72 hours and analyzed on the same day: if necessary, it can be frozen at -20 ° C. The results of the determination of pancreatic elastase-1 in feces are not affected by the substitution therapy with preparations of pancreatic enzymes.
If the exocrine function of the pancreas is insufficient, the content of pancreatic elastase-1 in the stool is reduced. Specificity of the test in the study of stool is 94%, sensitivity is 93%. The decrease in pancreatic elastase-1 activity in the stool is found in patients with chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, type 1 diabetes (less than 100 mcg / g in 30% of patients) and 2 (less than 100 mcg / g in 12% of patients), in children with cystic fibrosis, which reflects the insufficiency of exocrine pancreatic function in these patient groups.
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