Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

Question 1

What is the cause of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?

Answer 1

Lack of pancreatic digestive enzymes being secreted into the duodenum e.g amylase, lipase and protease
e.g. due to:
Pancreatic resection- surgical removal
Pancreatitis
Diabetes- lack of insulin= decrease size of pancreas = decreased function
Coeliac disease
Cystic fibrosis - pancreatic duct becomes blocked with mucus

Question 2

What are the symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?

Answer 2

Malnutrition- due to maldigestion of food
Lack of energy
Lack of growth in children
weight loss
low blood zinc levels= decreased immune function, poor wound healing
- lethargy, depression, poor concentration, muscle loss, dry skin, brittle nails = all signs of malnutrition
- diarrhoea
cramps, bloat, flatulence

Question 3

What are the dug treatments for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?

Answer 3

Aim to replace pancreatic enzymes
e.g. Pancrex V, Creon, Nutrizym 22
Doses are adjusted to meal size (increase dose for larger meals)
- physical symptoms should ease