Faecal Elastase-1: Lyophilization of Stool Samples Prevents False Low Results in Diarrhoea

Abstract

Background: In patients with diarrhoea, faecal elastase-1 is used to detect exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Diarrhoea is defined as >85% stool water content. Methods: We analysed elastase-1 in 519 stool samples from 310 patients unprocessed as well as after lyophilization in a standard laboratory lyophilizator. Stool water content was calculated by weight difference before and after lyophilization. Results:

• Chronic Pancreatitis Diarrhoea Lyophilization Pancreatic Elastase-1 Pancreatic Function Test