Elastase in stool

Pancreatic esterase is the only enzyme secreted by the pancreas thatry passes through the entire digestive system in unchanged form.

Hence, its amount in the feces directly indicates the physiological state of the pancreas and its ability to produce digestive enzymesy.

Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency is manifested by persistent fatty diarrhea and a syndrome of caloric and vitamin deficienciess. Fecal elastase is reduced in patients with advanced exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and is applicable to rznicating with those with normal pancreatic function.