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What Does This Fecal Fat Test Report Indicate?
Question: My M.D. (not a gastroenterologist) suspects that I have a Pancreatic enzyme insufficiency indicating a possible elastase deficiency. He ordered a fecal fat test which included a one-time, random sample which I delivered to the Lab the following day. No special instructions were given. The results read: "0.0360 grams of lipids per gram of stool". The Nurse Practioner said the results were "high normal". The doctor has prescribed Creon 3 x day for 30 days and return in 1 month for a follow up. ( I do not know the dosage as I have not picked this prescription up from the pharmacy.) My symptoms are urgency, abdominal cramping with normal to soft to liquid stools daily for about 2-3 years which can be controlled with loperamide (at times) and cholestyramine. I had a cholecystectomy one year ago hoping to correct the upper abdominal discomfort (didn't help) but was prescribed the cholestyramine for the continuing diarrhea. Would prefer not to take it....ugh. Of interest is the fact that I had 30 pelvic radiations treatments w/chemotherapy for anal cancer 9 years ago.
It appears to me that the elastase test was not done nor was the fecal fat test appropriately done. If I actually do not have a pancreatic enzyme deficiency, is it "okay" to take the supplements anyway? Any advice appreciated. XXXXXXX age 76
It appears to me that the elastase test was not done nor was the fecal fat test appropriately done. If I actually do not have a pancreatic enzyme deficiency, is it "okay" to take the supplements anyway? Any advice appreciated. XXXXXXX age 76
Brief Answer:
Please follow,,,
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I read carefully all your concerns and I can say as follows:
1. You are reporting to have had these symptoms 2-3 years. on the other hand you have gallbladder removed 1 year ago. So your symptoms are not due to gallbladder removed.
2. with regards to creon m You can use it, It will not damage you even if you don't have malabsorption.
The dosage is 25000 ui three times per day, 15 min before meal.
3. Otherwise to my opinion you should consult gastroenterologist and perform:
- abdominal ultrasound to better evaluate pancreatic issues
- blood work
It would be great if you can upload to me fecal test so i can check it by myself.
Hope it was helpful to you
Dr.Klerida
Please follow,,,
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I read carefully all your concerns and I can say as follows:
1. You are reporting to have had these symptoms 2-3 years. on the other hand you have gallbladder removed 1 year ago. So your symptoms are not due to gallbladder removed.
2. with regards to creon m You can use it, It will not damage you even if you don't have malabsorption.
The dosage is 25000 ui three times per day, 15 min before meal.
3. Otherwise to my opinion you should consult gastroenterologist and perform:
- abdominal ultrasound to better evaluate pancreatic issues
- blood work
It would be great if you can upload to me fecal test so i can check it by myself.
Hope it was helpful to you
Dr.Klerida
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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