Understanding Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is it?

Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), is a condition affecting digestion, due to the lack of enzymes produced by the pancreas. The pancreatic enzymes collaborate in fat absorption. Risk factors for EPI include chronic pancreatitis, celiac disease, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, Cystic fibrosis and pancreatic cancer.

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Signs & symptoms

Symptoms may include bloating, diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, oily stools, foul smelling stools and unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include fecal tests for elastase and fat, secretin pancreatic function test, and imaging of the abdomen.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but usually includes pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, such as Creon. Also, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy proteins is suggested.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:

National Institution of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ University of Illinois hospital