Faecal Elastase 1

Pathology category

Biochemistry - referred tests

Code

FPE1

Referral code

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Test information

Faecal elastase is a proteolytic enzyme specifically secreted by the acinar cells of the pancreas. Unlike other pancreatic enzymes such as chymotrypsin, elastase is not degraded during intestinal transit, and so the stool concentration reflects exocrine pancreatic function. It is used as a non-invasive first line tset to assess patients with chronic pancreatitis, CF and other situations involving exocrine pancreas dysfunction.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Stable in faeces at room temp upto 1 week, and 1 month in fridge

Reference range

Normal >200 ug/g stool. Mild exocrine pancreatic insufficiency 100-200 ug/g stool. Severe exocrine pancreatic insufficiency <100 ug/g stool.

Tube type

Tube type info

Plain container

Special requirements

Random stool

Minimum volume

Assay frequency

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

TAT Inpatient

4 weeks

TAT GP/Outpatient

4 weeks

Referral lab

Clinical Biochemistry City Hospital Birmingham