Name of the Procedure:

Elastase, pancreatic (EL-1), fecal, qualitative or semi-quantitative

Summary

This test measures the concentration of pancreatic elastase-1 enzyme in a stool sample. It's used to assess pancreatic function, particularly regarding its ability to produce digestive enzymes.

Purpose

The pancreatic elastase-1 test helps diagnose exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and other conditions affecting the pancreas. The results can indicate whether the pancreas is producing enough digestive enzymes to properly break down food.

Indications

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Unexplained weight loss
• Diarrhea or steatorrhea (fatty stools)
• Abdominal pain
• Suspected pancreatic insufficiency

Preparation

Generally, no special preparation is needed. Patients are usually advised to maintain their regular diet and medications leading up to the test. However, they should avoid taking digestive enzyme supplements before collecting the stool sample.

Procedure Description

1. The patient collects a stool sample using a provided container.
2. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
3. In the lab, the presence and concentration of pancreatic elastase-1 enzyme are measured either qualitatively or semi-quantitatively using specific biochemical techniques.

Duration

The sample collection takes a few minutes. Laboratory analysis may take several days to a week to return results.

Setting

The stool sample collection is done at home, while the analysis is conducted in a specialized laboratory.

Personnel

• Patient (collects the stool sample)
• Laboratory technician (analyzes the sample)
• Ordering physician (interprets the results)

Risks and Complications

• There are no significant risks associated with sample collection.
• Rarely, improper sample collection or handling might lead to inaccurate results.

Benefits

• Non-invasive and easy to perform.
• Helps diagnose pancreatic insufficiency, enabling timely treatment.
• Can guide dietary and medical management to improve nutrient absorption.

Recovery

No recovery is needed since the procedure involves only stool sample collection.

Alternatives

• Serum pancreatic enzyme measurement: invasive compared to stool sample.
• Direct pancreatic function test: more invasive and less convenient.
• Imaging studies like CT or MRI: less direct but useful for structural assessment.

Patient Experience

• Collection involves no pain or discomfort.
• Healthcare professionals will guide the patient through the collection process to ensure accurate and trouble-free sample submission.