Pancreatic elastase in stool
fecal elastase · stool elastase test · pancreatic elastase · stool test for the pancreas
This stool test checks for an enzyme from the pancreas. It shows whether you have enough enzymes to digest food.
For greasy, bulky stools that are hard to flush, weight loss, and bloating, for pancreas conditions, and in children, for poor weight gain.
⏱ Duration: collection at home takes a few minutes; results usually come in a few days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Container. Get a container with a small spoon from a pharmacy or the lab.
- Medicines. Do not stop anything on your own. Enzyme pills usually do not affect this test, but tell your doctor about them.
- Stool. It is better to give a formed stool, not a watery one.
What to bring
- The sample container
- Your referral
How it goes
- Collect the stool in a clean, dry container, not in the toilet
- Make sure no urine or water gets into the sample
- Use the spoon to take a piece the size of a pea or a bean
- Close the container tightly and label it
- Take it to the lab within the time they gave you
What you'll feel
- Nothing. You collect the sample at home with no pain
- Collecting it can be unpleasant, but it is quick and done only once
Afterwards
- Results usually come in a few days
- If elastase is low, the doctor will decide if you need enzymes or other tests
Common questions
Can I keep the sample in the fridge?
Usually yes, for a short time. The lab will tell you exactly how long.
Do I need a special diet before the test?
Usually not. Eat as you always do.