The Fecal Elastase Test measures the amount of an enzyme called elastase-1 in your stool. This enzyme is made by the pancreas and helps your body digest food. If the level is low, it may mean the pancreas isn’t working properly, leading to poor digestion and nutrient absorption a condition called pancreatic insufficiency.
Indications for Testing
This test may be recommended if you:
-
Have chronic diarrhea or oily, smelly stools (steatorrhea)
-
Experience bloating, stomach cramps, or unexplained weight loss
-
Show signs of poor nutrient absorption (malabsorption)
-
Have conditions like chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or diabetes
-
Are being monitored for pancreatic function or enzyme therapy response
Patient Preparation
-
No special preparation is needed
-
Do not take laxatives, stool softeners, or rectal medications 48 hours before sample collection
-
If you are taking pancreatic enzyme supplements, ask your doctor whether to pause them before testing
Sample Collection Procedure
-
A fresh stool sample is required
-
Collect the sample in a clean, dry, sterile container (do not mix with urine or water)
-
Keep the sample refrigerated if not delivered immediately
-
No preservatives should be added
Reference Values
-
>200 µg/g – Normal pancreatic function
-
100–200 µg/g – Mild to moderate insufficiency
-
<100 µg/g – Severe pancreatic insufficiency
Interpretation of Results
-
Normal: Your pancreas is producing enough enzymes for digestion
-
Low: May indicate pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (EPI), where enzyme production is too low
-
Your doctor may recommend enzyme replacement therapy or further testing
Turnaround Time
Results are usually available within 3 to 5 working days, depending on lab processing time.
How to Order Fecal Elastase Test
You can ‘Order Test’ the Fecal Elastase Test online, visit us at Kilimani, Nairobi or book a home sample collection by calling us or clicking the button below.
