Elastase, Faecal – Stool

Faecal Elastase Test (Pancreatic Function Test)
Check Your Pancreatic Health from the Comfort of Home

The Faecal Elastase Test is a simple, non-invasive stool test used to assess the digestive function of your pancreas. It measures the level of pancreatic elastase-1, an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

Low levels of faecal elastase may indicate Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to poor nutrient absorption and digestive symptoms.

Our laboratory-tested home faecal elastase test provides accurate results to help identify potential pancreatic dysfunction and support discussions with your healthcare professional.

What Is Faecal Elastase?

Faecal elastase is an enzyme secreted by the pancreas and released into the digestive tract. Unlike many digestive enzymes, elastase remains stable as it passes through the intestines, making it an excellent marker of pancreatic enzyme production.

By measuring elastase levels in a stool sample, healthcare professionals can evaluate how effectively the pancreas is functioning.

Why Is Pancreatic Function Important?

The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by producing enzymes that help your body absorb nutrients from food.

When pancreatic enzyme production falls, individuals may develop Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), which can lead to:

Chronic diarrhoea
Loose, oily or greasy stools (steatorrhoea)
Bloating and excessive gas
Abdominal discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Nutritional deficiencies
Fatigue
Difficulty digesting fatty foods

Early identification of pancreatic insufficiency can help guide further investigation and treatment.

Who Should Consider a Faecal Elastase Test?

This test may be suitable if you experience:

Persistent digestive symptoms
Chronic diarrhoea
Frequent bloating or abdominal discomfort
Oily, floating or difficult-to-flush stools
Unexplained weight loss
Malabsorption concerns
Nutrient deficiencies despite a healthy diet

It may also be useful for individuals with conditions associated with pancreatic dysfunction, including:

Chronic pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis history
Pancreatic cancer
Cystic fibrosis
Coeliac disease
Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
What Does the Test Measure?

This test measures:

Pancreatic Elastase-1

Pancreatic elastase is a digestive enzyme produced exclusively by the pancreas. Measuring its concentration in stool provides valuable insight into pancreatic exocrine function.

Typical interpretation includes:

Faecal Elastase Result Interpretation
>200 µg/g Normal pancreatic function
100–200 µg/g Mild to moderate pancreatic insufficiency
<100 µg/g Severe pancreatic insufficiency Results should always be interpreted alongside symptoms and medical history. Benefits of the Faecal Elastase Test
Non-Invasive

No blood draw or hospital visit required.

Convenient Home Collection

Collect your stool sample discreetly at home.

Reliable Assessment

Faecal elastase is considered one of the most widely used markers for assessing exocrine pancreatic function.

Supports Early Detection

May help identify pancreatic insufficiency before significant nutritional complications develop.

Laboratory Analysed

Samples are processed by accredited laboratory professionals using validated testing methods.

How the Testing Process Works
Step 1: Order Online

Purchase your faecal elastase test kit securely online.

Step 2: Collect Your Sample

Use the kit provided to collect a small stool sample in the comfort of your home.

Step 3: Return Your Sample

Send your sample to our partner laboratory using the prepaid packaging provided.

Step 4: Receive Your Results

Access your confidential laboratory report online once testing is complete.

Understanding Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency occurs when the pancreas cannot produce enough digestive enzymes to properly break down food.

Without adequate enzyme production, nutrients—particularly fats—cannot be effectively absorbed, which may lead to:

Weight loss
Vitamin deficiencies
Malnutrition
Reduced quality of life

Common causes include chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, and certain gastrointestinal conditions.

Early diagnosis can help healthcare professionals determine whether further investigations or pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) may be appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is a faecal elastase test?

Faecal elastase testing is widely recognised as a useful and reliable method for evaluating pancreatic exocrine function, particularly for moderate to severe pancreatic insufficiency.

Do I need to stop medications before testing?

Most medications do not affect faecal elastase levels. However, you should follow the instructions provided with your kit and consult your healthcare professional if unsure.

Can this test diagnose pancreatic cancer?

No. This test assesses pancreatic enzyme production and digestive function. It cannot diagnose pancreatic cancer or other pancreatic diseases. Abnormal results may indicate the need for further medical evaluation.

What happens if my result is low?

A low result may suggest pancreatic insufficiency. You should discuss your findings with a healthcare professional who may recommend further testing or treatment.

Is the test suitable for children?

Faecal elastase testing is commonly used in both adults and children, particularly when pancreatic insufficiency is suspected.

Why Choose Repose Healthcare?

At Repose Healthcare, we provide convenient and reliable home health testing solutions designed to help you take control of your wellbeing.

Our faecal elastase test offers:

Easy home sample collection
Professional laboratory analysis
Secure online results
Fast turnaround times
UK-based customer support
Confidential and discreet service

Order your Faecal Elastase Test today and gain valuable insights into your digestive and pancreatic health.