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Pancreatic Elastase Test

Pancreatic elastase testing provides a non-invasive assessment of your pancreatic digestive function. As part of a comprehensive health evaluation, it can help identify digestive concerns related to pancreatic enzyme production.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Decision limits per result, in ug/g
Result Value (ug/g)
Low < 200
Normal ≥ 200

Faecal pancreatic elastase-1. Values < 200 µg/g point to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Some laboratories split this further (100–200 µg/g moderate, < 100 µg/g severe); the NVKC source gives only the 200 µg/g limit, so that is the one we follow.

Source: NVKC Reference population: Faeces: exocrine pancreatic function (NVKC)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Elastase (Pancreatic): what this test measures

This test measures the concentration of pancreatic elastase in a stool sample. Because pancreatic elastase remains stable during intestinal transit and is not degraded by other digestive enzymes, it provides a reliable indicator of how well the pancreas is producing digestive enzymes.

Elastase (Pancreatic): why this value matters

The pancreas produces essential digestive enzymes. Reduced pancreatic elastase levels may indicate exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to properly digest food. Early detection can guide treatment to improve nutrient absorption and quality of life.

Elastase (Pancreatic): how the blood test works

Referral
No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
The draw
A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
Which test
on its own €55,-
Where
650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites

Elastase (Pancreatic): when is testing worthwhile?

Testing may be recommended if you experience chronic diarrhoea, fatty or foul-smelling stools, unexplained weight loss, or bloating after meals. It is also used in the evaluation of chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and other pancreatic disorders.

Elastase (Pancreatic): symptoms of a high or low value

Low Levels

Low pancreatic elastase levels may indicate pancreatic insufficiency, which can be associated with malabsorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins, chronic diarrhoea, weight loss, bloating, and nutritional deficiencies. This may be linked to chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or other pancreatic conditions. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

High Levels

Elevated pancreatic elastase levels in stool are not typically a clinical concern and generally indicate normal or robust pancreatic enzyme production. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Elastase (Pancreatic): lifestyle and this value

If pancreatic insufficiency is identified, your healthcare professional may recommend pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and reducing dietary fat intake may help manage symptoms. Avoiding alcohol and smoking is important for pancreatic health.

Elastase (Pancreatic): frequently asked questions

How is the stool sample collected?

A small stool sample is collected at home using a provided collection kit. The sample should be taken to the laboratory as directed. No special diet or preparation is usually required, but follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

Can pancreatic insufficiency be treated?

Yes, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency is commonly managed with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), taken with meals. Your healthcare professional will determine the appropriate approach based on the severity of the insufficiency and its underlying cause.

Is low pancreatic elastase always serious?

Not necessarily. Mildly reduced levels may warrant monitoring and dietary adjustments, while significantly low levels often indicate clinically relevant pancreatic insufficiency that benefits from treatment. Your healthcare professional will guide the appropriate follow-up.

Elastase (Pancreatic): sources

  1. Nederlandse Vereniging voor Klinische Chemie en Laboratoriumgeneeskunde. Alles over testen. Over AFP: "De referentiewaarden kunnen verschillen tussen laboratoria, afhankelijk van de methode. Ga daarom uitsluitend af op de referentiewaarden van het laboratorium dat het onderzoek heeft uitgevoerd en interpreteer nooit AFP-uitslagen van verschillende laboratoria door elkaar." Geraadpleegd 14 juli 2026. (retrieved 2026) allesovertesten.nl

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Medical standards

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Medical policy
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Elastase (Pancreatic)

€55,-