What is the Elastase (Faecal) Test?

The Elastase (Faecal) test measures pancreatic elastase, an enzyme produced by the pancreas and released into the intestine during digestion. Elastase remains stable as it passes through the gut, making its concentration in stool a reliable marker of pancreatic exocrine function.

This test is widely used to evaluate whether the pancreas is producing sufficient digestive enzymes. It is particularly useful in identifying pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, a condition where digestion and nutrient absorption are impaired.

Why do I need a test for Elastase (Faecal)?

You may need this test if you have persistent digestive symptoms that suggest poor digestion or malabsorption. Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency can develop gradually and is often underdiagnosed.

Identifying reduced enzyme production allows appropriate treatment, such as pancreatic enzyme replacement, helping to improve digestion, nutritional status and quality of life.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Chronic diarrhoea
• Fatty or pale stools (steatorrhoea)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Suspected pancreatic disease
• Diabetes with digestive symptoms
• Monitoring known pancreatic conditions

Benefits of the Elastase (Faecal) Test

• Assesses pancreatic enzyme production
  Direct indicator of exocrine pancreatic function.
• Detects pancreatic exocrine insufficiency
  Identifies reduced digestive capacity.
• Non-invasive stool-based testing
  No blood draw required.
• Supports investigation of malabsorption
  Helps explain chronic digestive symptoms.
• Guides enzyme replacement therapy
  Supports appropriate treatment decisions.
• Stable and reliable marker
  Elastase is not affected by gut transit time.
• Useful in chronic pancreatic disease
  Including pancreatitis and pancreatic insufficiency.
• Improves diagnostic clarity
  Differentiates pancreatic from intestinal causes.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Sample Collection Method

This test requires a stool (faecal) sample collected at home or in a clinical setting.

Faecal Sample Collection

1. You receive clear instructions and a collection container.
2. A small stool sample is collected hygienically.
3. The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
4. Elastase levels are measured and reported.

Access your report

Results are delivered securely online for you and your clinician to review.

Your Results Explained

Low Levels

Low faecal elastase levels indicate pancreatic exocrine insufficiency.
This suggests reduced enzyme production and impaired digestion.
Typical UK reference thresholds:

• <100 µg/g: Severe insufficiency
• 100–200 µg/g: Moderate insufficiency

Normal Levels

Normal elastase levels indicate adequate pancreatic enzyme production.
This makes pancreatic insufficiency unlikely.

High Levels

High levels are not usually clinically significant.
They indicate preserved pancreatic exocrine function.