Pancreatic insufficiency

Pancreatic Insufficiency

Pancreatic insufficiency (/ˌpæŋkriˈætɪk ɪnˌsʌfɪˈʃɛnsi/), also known as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), is a medical condition characterized by the inability of the pancreas to produce and/or transport enough digestive enzymes to break down food in the intestine and assist with nutrient absorption.

Etymology

The term "pancreatic insufficiency" is derived from the Greek words pankreas (all flesh) and insufficientia (insufficiency), referring to the organ's inability to perform its normal function.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of pancreatic insufficiency include steatorrhea (fatty, foul-smelling stools), weight loss, and vitamin deficiencies due to malabsorption. Other symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, bloating, and flatulence.

Causes

Pancreatic insufficiency can be caused by several conditions, including chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, and surgical removal of all or part of the pancreas.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pancreatic insufficiency often involves tests to measure the levels of pancreatic enzymes in the body, such as the fecal elastase test. Other diagnostic methods may include endoscopic ultrasound and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP).

Treatment

Treatment for pancreatic insufficiency typically involves pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), which helps the body break down and absorb nutrients from food. Dietary modifications and vitamin supplements may also be recommended.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Pancreatic insufficiency
Wikipedia's article - Pancreatic insufficiency

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Pancreatic insufficiency