Overview
Pancreatic Enzyme Deficiency is a condition characterised by deficiency in exocrine pancreatic enzyme which leads to inability to digest food and malabsorption. The main enzymes secreted are amylase, protease and lipaseSigns and Symptoms
Steatorrhea, Weight loss, Tiredness, Gas, Cramps, Bloating, Pain in the center of the stomach that radiates to the back, Loss of muscle, Signs of vitamin deficiency, such as brittle nails/ hair loss/and skin problemsCommon Causes
Pancreatic cancer, Surgical removal of the pancreas, Obstructions of the pancreatic duct, Celiac disease, Crohn's disease, Autoimmune pancreatitis, DiabetesRisk Factors
Chronic pancreatitis, Chronic alcohol abuseInvestigation Techniques
Blood tests, Stool tests, Fat absorption tests, D-xylose test, Bile salt absorption test, Pancreatic Function Tests, Abdominal ImagingTreatment and Prevention
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, Vitamin supplementation, Lifestyle modifications