Chymotrypsin - faeces

Last updated: Wednesday, 31, March, 2004

MBS Online Search Page: Click here for details

Item Process
Specimen

5 g faeces (random) frozen immediately after collection.

Method

Spectrophotometry.

Some laboratories may assay trypsin which requires a different substrate.

Both are being replaced by specific assays for human pancreatic elastase. 
See Pancreatic elastase - faecal.

Reference Interval

Method dependent.

Application

Diagnosis of pancreatic exocrine failure. Assessment of pancreatic enzyme replacement.

Interpretation

Faecal trypsin and chymotrypsin are reduced in pancreatic exocrine failure.

Malabsorption and decreased faecal enzymes are not usually obvious until >95% of the pancreas has been destroyed.

Reference

Petersen JM and Forsmark CE. Semin Gastrointest Dis 2002; 13(4): 191-199.

Layer P et al. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 2001; 3(2): 101-108.