Pancreatic elastase
| Category | Biochemistry |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Elastase is unaffected by intestinal passage, so faecal concentrations (which are 5-fold greater than in pancreatic juice) more accurately reflect the amount of enzyme secreted from the pancreas and consequently serve as a means of assessing pancreatic function. |
| Clinical Indications |
Investigation of malabsorption due to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. |
| Reference range | See report |
| Sample & container required | Faecal sample in universal container |
| Sample volume | 5 g |
| Turnaround time | Up to 6 weeks |
| Notes | Not currently performed in house; this is a referred test. Can get transient low values during enteric viral infection, suggest repeat in 2 weeks. |