Pancreatic function testing

Preview

Pancreatic function testing is indicated in situations where chronic disease is suspected despite normal or equivocal results on radiologic imaging. A number of the diagnostic methods currently available simplify the evaluation process because they measure function indirectly and do not require gastrointestinal intubation. However, this advantage must be weighed against the fact that the sensitivity of these tests is lower than that of direct tests, particularly in patients with milder grades of pancreatic insufliciency. Dr Gilinsky gives an overview of recent research surrounding the methods and clinical applications of pancreatic exocrine function testing.