Faecal elastase
- Description
- Faecal elastase is a non-invasive stool test that measures human pancreatic elastase 1 (E1), an enzyme that remains stable during intestinal transit. The concentration of elastase in faeces reflects pancreatic exocrine function. The test is performed on the Diasorin LIAISON XL analyser using a chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA).
- Clinical details
Faecal elastase is used to assess pancreatic exocrine function and can support the diagnosis or exclusion of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Reduced faecal elastase concentrations may be associated with conditions affecting pancreatic function, including chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer. Faecal elastase testing provides a non-invasive assessment of pancreatic exocrine function and results should be interpreted alongside the patient’s clinical history and other investigations.
- Related condition
- Reference range
>200 µg/g faeces
- Units
µg/g faeces
- Synonyms
FELA
- Testing site
- Synnovis : Reference Services : Blackfriars Hub
- Laboratory
- Gastrointestinal
- Sample type and volume required
Random faecal sample collected at any time of day. No dietary restrictions are required. Collect approximately 1g of faeces in a plain universal container.
- Special sample instructions
Samples that are grossly contaminated with blood, mucus or food, or that contain tissue, cotton buds or other foreign material are unsuitable for faecal elastase analysis.
- Storage and transport
Samples should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection. If not sent immediately, samples are stable refrigerated for up to 3 days. Samples may also be frozen prior to transport and, where possible, should be transported frozen or on ice to maintain stability during transport.
- Turnaround time
10 working days.
- Patient instructions
Pass the stool into a clean, dry container or onto a clean disposable surface, avoiding contact with toilet water or cleaning products. Using the collection device provided, transfer approximately 1g (a pea-sized amount) of faeces into a plain universal container and secure the lid tightly.
- Contacts
Gastrointestinal Laboratory at Blackfriars Hub
Phone: 020 459 10046
Email: Gilab@synnovis.co.uk
Gastrointestinal Laboratory
Floor 2, Synnovis hub
Friars Bridge Court
41-43 Blackfriars Road
London, SE1 8NZ