Feces for elastase-1

Stool analysis for elastase-1

Why is it needed?

Elastase-1 is an enzyme of the pancreasthat is involved in the digestion of proteinsProteins are high-molecular organic substances consisting of alpha-amino acids linked in a chain by a peptide bond. In living organisms, the amino acid composition of proteins is determined by the genetic code. During synthesis, 20 standard amino acids are used in most cases. Many combinations of them determine the great diversity of properties of protein molecules. Proteins play a key role in the immune response and can perform transport, storage, catalytic, structural, and receptor functions. Proteins are an important part of the nutrition of animals and humans. The main sources of proteins are meat, poultry, fish, milk, nuts, legumes, and grains.. Its level in the stool reflects the exocrine function of the pancreas (the ability to produce digestive enzymesEnzymes are proteins that accelerate chemical reactions in the body. They ensure the occurrence of metabolic processes such as food digestion, energy release, cell formation, and many others.).

The analysis is prescribed for the diagnosis of:
✔ Chronic pancreatitis (decreased production of enzymes).
✔ Cystic fibrosis (a genetic disorder involving the pancreas).
✔ Malabsorption syndrome (malabsorption of nutrients).
✔ Bowel diseases (celiac disease, Crohn’s disease).

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Symptoms of Elastase-1 deficiency

If there is a lack of the enzyme, the pancreas can not cope with the digestion of food, which leads to:

• Greasy, fetid stools (steatorrhea).
• Bloating, gas.
• Weight loss (despite a normal diet).
• Lack of vitamins A, D, E, and K (due to poor fat absorption).
• Chronic diarrhea.

Causes of low Elastase-1:

• Chronic pancreatitis.
• Cystic fibrosis.
• Age-related decline in pancreatic function.
• Pancreatic surgery.

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Can there be an excess of elastase-1?

No, elevated elastase-1 levels are not clinically relevant.

• If the result is higher than normal, this does not indicate a disease.
• Sometimes this happens with diarrhea of non-pancreatic origin (for example, with infections).

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Norm of elastase-1 in feces

Important:

• The test is given without preparation (it does not require a diet or medication withdrawal).
• Feces are collected in a sterile container (1-2 g is enough).
• Do not freeze the sample!

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What to do with low elastase-1?

1. Enzyme replacement therapy (Creon, Pancreatin).
2. A low-fat diet (to reduce the burden on the pancreas).
3. Vitamin control (taking fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K).
4. Additional surveys:

• Ultrasound/MRI of the pancreas.
• Test for cystic fibrosis (if the cause is unknown).

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When is the test scheduled?

• Chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Suspected pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.

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Conclusion

Fecal elastase-1 is a reliable marker of pancreatic function.
, The norm: > 500 mcg/g
. Дефицит Deficiency (<200 mcg/g) indicates pancreatic insufficiency.
Treatment: Enzymes + diet + vitamin control.