Faecal Pancreatic Elastase Test
The faecal pancreatic elastase test, also known as the stool elastase test, is used to assess the functioning of the pancreas by measuring elastase in your stool.
Collect your sample in the comfort of your own home, with no fasting required. The test is suitable for adults and children. Discuss testing for children and your results with your GP.
Order your home testing kit by clicking on the Add to Cart Button below
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Why choose faecal pancreatic elastase testing?
Simple home sample collection, professional laboratory analysis and convenient prepaid return.
Suitable for adults and children
For children, discuss the suitability of testing with their GP.
Test in the comfort of your own home
Collect your sample at home without a clinic visit.
Non-invasive
A stool sample test with no needles or invasive procedure.
Accredited Irish laboratory
Samples are analysed by a fully accredited Irish medical laboratory.
Convenient prepaid return
Post your sample directly to the laboratory in the prepaid package, which fits through a standard postbox.
Symptoms of pancreatic insufficiency
Bloating
Abdominal discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Greasy stools
Malabsorption
Delayed growth
Malnutrition
Vitamin deficiency
Understanding my results
Reference ranges
<100 µg/g
Severe exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
100–200 µg/g
Moderate exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
>200 µg/g
Normal exocrine pancreatic function
If your sample is diluted
The following note appears on your report if the stool sample is diluted:
Due to the liquid appearance of the stool sample, the result may be underestimated due to dilution. Repeat testing using a formed stool sample is recommended.
Faecal elastase FAQs
What is faecal pancreatic elastase test?
The faecal pancreatic elastase test, or more commonly known as the stool elastase test, is used to assess the functioning of the pancreas. This particular test detects the levels of the enzyme “elastase” in the stool.
The exocrine part of the pancreas produces the elastase enzyme. This enzyme is released into the small intestine to help the breakdown of macromolecules of food e.g. proteins
Elastase passes down the digestive tract and is eliminated via the faeces. Normal levels of elastase in the stool indicate an optimally working pancreas. However, abnormal values of elastase point towards a pancreatic abnormality.
What does it test for?
There are a number of conditions that can lead to disruptions in the stool elastase levels including:
Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
As the name indicates, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a condition characterised by the underperformance of the pancreas (in terms of producing enzymes). The lower than normal level of the digestive enzyme by the pancreas hinders the process of digestion and therefore, malabsorption ensues.Pancreatic damage may be the outcome of blockage of pancreatic ducts, recurrent inflammation of the pancreas, previous pancreatic surgery, etc. Patients suffering from cystic fibrosis, chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, are at great risk of developing EPI. It can also be linked to pancreatic cancer.
Faecal Pancreatic elastase level is a marker for pancreatic insufficiency.
What do the results indicate?
Normal Level
Pancreatic elastase values greater than 200µg/g are considered normal and indicate a healthy pancreas.Moderately High Levels
A value of 100-200µg/g is considered moderate pancreatic insufficiency.Very High Levels
If the results show elastase values to be below 100µg/g, severe pancreatic insufficiency is expected.How is the sample collected?
A stool sample container is used to collect the stool in the comfort of your own home. The sample should be kept uncontaminated with urine or water and transported promptly to the lab as per the instructions in the testing kit.
Test Details
- Testing Age
- Adults & Children
Discuss testing for children with their GP. - Referral
- No referral required
- Results
- Approx. 10 working days from laboratory receipt
Home Test Kit Fee
€125
What’s included in your elastase kit?
Your kit includes one of each item below to collect your sample at home and package it for return to the laboratory.
Test Instructions Book
Read before collecting, packaging and returning your sample.
Test Request Form
Complete the required patient details and return with your sample.
Prepaid Postage Box
Return your packaged sample directly to the laboratory.
Biohazard Bag
Package your sample as shown in the supplied instructions.
Absorbent Pad
Use when packaging the sample, following the instructions.
Blue Security Seal Sticker
Seal the return package as instructed.
Sample Container
The scoop is attached to the cap. Use the supplied container to collect and hold your stool sample.
Collection Mat
Use the collection mat as directed in your kit.
Shipping and T&C’s
Patient Details
Ordering for someone else?
We assume the name and address provided at checkout belong to the patient taking the test.
If you are purchasing the test for a family member or someone else, please contact GastroLife immediately after purchase to provide the patient’s details.
Order your home testing kit by clicking on the Add to Cart Button below
Explore other digestive health tests
Faecal pancreatic elastase is one part of a broader digestive health assessment.
If you’re experiencing multiple digestive symptoms or are looking for a broader assessment of your gut health, the Comprehensive Gut Check Bundle combines five key gastrointestinal investigations in one package.
Comprehensive Gut Check Bundle
A broader assessment of your gut health
- SIBO Breath TestChecks for bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
- Faecal CalprotectinHelps assess inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Faecal Pancreatic ElastaseAssesses pancreatic enzyme production.
- H. Pylori TestingDetects Helicobacter pylori infection.
- Bowel Cancer FIT ScreeningScreens for hidden blood in the stool.
Discuss the most suitable testing option with your GP.
