FECAL ELASTASE

Faecal Elastase: Price, Purpose, Range & Reports
 

The Faecal Elastase Test is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the function of the pancreas. It specifically measures the concentration of the enzyme elastase-1 in a stool sample, providing a highly reliable indicator of Exocrine Pancreatic Function (EPI). This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, such as chronic pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis.
The test is simple, sensitive, and unlike many other pancreatic function tests, it is not affected by Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT). If you are looking for an accurate Faecal Elastase Test price or a convenient lab test near me, Apollo 24|7 offers accredited laboratory services, ensuring timely and reliable results.

What is the Faecal Elastase Test?

Also known as the Faecal Elastase-1 or Pancreatic Elastase Test, this test is a highly specific immunoassay that detects the enzyme elastase-1 in the stool. Elastase-1 is an enzyme exclusively produced by the acinar cells of the pancreas, which is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion.
The Principle of the Test: Elastase-1 travels through the digestive tract virtually unchanged, meaning its concentration in the faeces directly reflects the amount produced by the pancreas. Because it is highly stable and resistant to degradation by intestinal bacteria, a low measurement in the stool indicates inadequate production by the pancreas, which is known as Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). The test is performed on a small, non-invasive stool sample.

What is the Faecal Elastase Test Price?

The Faecal Elastase Test price is a reflection of the specialised laboratory procedure required to accurately measure this specific enzyme in a stool matrix. Factors influencing the cost include:
•    Immunoassay Technology: The test utilises specialised immunoassay kits and technology, which ensure high accuracy and specificity in enzyme quantification.
•    Laboratory Expertise: The process requires skilled technicians to correctly handle the specimen and perform the assay according to stringent protocols.
•    Logistics and Handling: The cost may account for the necessary logistics involved in sample transport and processing to maintain the integrity of the stool specimen.
•    Quality Assurance: Utilising NABL-accredited labs, like those associated with Apollo, ensures high standards for test accuracy and reliability.
To find the current, most accurate Faecal Elastase Test price for your area, you should check the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application, which provides up-to-date pricing based on your location and any active offers.

Who Needs a Faecal Elastase Test?

Your doctor may recommend a Faecal Elastase Test if you're having digestive symptoms that suggest your pancreas may not be working properly. This test helps check whether your body is making enough enzymes to break down and absorb food.
You might need this test if:
•    You have fatty or oily stools (steatorrhea): If your stools are pale, bulky, greasy, or hard to flush, it could mean your body isn’t digesting fat well.
•    You’re losing weight without trying: Unexplained weight loss or poor growth in children may be a sign that your body isn’t absorbing nutrients properly.
•    You have frequent or chronic diarrhoea: Loose stools that keep coming back or don’t respond to treatment may be linked to poor enzyme production.
•    You feel bloated or gassy often: These symptoms can happen when food isn’t fully digested in your gut.
•    You have ongoing abdominal pain: Pain that lasts or spreads to your back may be related to chronic pancreatitis or other pancreatic issues.
•    You’ve been diagnosed with a condition that affects the pancreas: This includes chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic duct blockage, or if you’ve had pancreatic surgery.
•    You have celiac disease or diabetes: These conditions can affect how well your pancreas functions over time.
If any of these apply to you, the Faecal Elastase Test can help your doctor understand what’s going on and decide the best next steps for your care.

What is the Purpose of the Test?

The Faecal Elastase Test serves three critical clinical objectives related to pancreatic health:
•    Diagnose Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): Its primary purpose is to confirm whether the pancreas is producing sufficient digestive enzymes, which is essential for guiding nutritional management and treatment.
•    Assess Severity: The concentration of elastase often correlates with the severity of pancreatic damage. A severely low result helps doctors stage the disease and tailor treatment accordingly.
•    Guide and Monitor Treatment: While the test is not affected by enzyme replacement medication, it is used to establish the baseline diagnosis. In some cases, doctors may use the results to determine the optimal dosage for Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT).

Components of the Faecal Elastase Test

The Faecal Elastase Test is a quantitative stool test used to evaluate pancreatic function.
•    Faecal Elastase-1 Concentration: This is the main component measured. It reflects the amount of Faecal Elastase-1, a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas. Measuring its concentration helps determine how effectively the pancreas is producing enzymes needed for proper digestion.

Understanding a Faecal Elastase Test Report

The Faecal Elastase concentration is used to classify the severity of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). Higher values indicate healthy pancreatic function, while lower values suggest varying degrees of insufficiency.
 

Important Note: Even if a patient is taking Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT), the Faecal Elastase test remains accurate because the administered enzymes (derived from pigs) do not cross-react with the human elastase-1 enzyme measured by the test. However, all test results must be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider who will consider your symptoms, medical history, and overall clinical picture before making a diagnosis or recommending treatment.

Preparation and Procedure for the Faecal Elastase Test

This test is non-invasive and requires minimal preparation, focusing primarily on proper sample collection.

1. How is the Test Done?

The Faecal Elastase Test requires the collection of a random, pea-sized stool sample. The sample must be collected in a sterile container provided by the laboratory or collection centre. Once collected, the sample is sent to the lab where specialised equipment is used to isolate and measure the concentration of elastase-1.

Stool Sample Collection Guidance

•    Avoid Contamination: The sample must not be contaminated with urine or toilet water. It is best to collect the sample directly into the provided container using a clean method (e.g., using a collection kit or lining the toilet bowl with plastic wrap).
•    Sample Size: Only a small, pea-sized amount is needed.

2. Is Fasting Required for This Test?

No, fasting is not required for the Faecal Elastase Test. Since the test measures an enzyme in the stool, eating or drinking does not affect the result.

3. What Time of the Day Should I Undergo the Test?

The stool sample can be collected at any time of the day.

4. How Frequently Should I Undergo the Test?

The test is primarily ordered once for the initial diagnosis of EPI. It may be repeated if the initial results were borderline, or if your doctor needs to re-evaluate pancreatic function over time, especially following major treatment changes or surgery.

5. Do I Need to Inform My Doctor About Medications?

Yes. It is essential to inform your doctor about all medications, though unlike some other pancreatic tests (which measure fat content), Faecal Elastase is generally not affected by Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT). You should also inform them of any medications that cause diarrhoea or alter bowel motility, as this may potentially dilute the sample, though this effect is generally minor.

Booking Faecal Elastase Test Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 provides a convenient and confidential way to schedule your Faecal Elastase Test and access your results quickly.

What are the Steps to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7?

1.    Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application and search for the FECAL ELASTASE test.
2.    Confirm the latest Faecal Elastase Test price for your city and click the 'Book Now' button.
3.    Select your preferred date and a convenient time slot for the sample collection (home or lab visit).
4.    Complete the secure online payment. Confirmation details and preparation reminders will be sent instantly.

How Do I Access My Test Results Online on Apollo 24|7?

1.    Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account using your registered phone number or email.
2.    Navigate to the 'Health Records' or 'My Reports' section on the dashboard.
3.    Click on your completed test name to view the detailed report immediately.
4.    You can easily view the entire report online or download it in PDF format to share with your physician.

Conclusion

The Faecal Elastase Test is a crucial, non-invasive screening tool for diagnosing Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). A low result provides strong evidence of pancreatic dysfunction, allowing doctors to quickly initiate Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT) and nutritional support to prevent long-term malabsorption and complications.
This test simplifies the diagnostic process for conditions like chronic pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis. Remember, your doctor will interpret your Faecal Elastase result alongside your clinical symptoms and medical history to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective long-term care plan.