Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Flashcards
What are the main clinical indicators of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
Maldigestion, malnutrition, low circulating levels of micronutrients, fat-soluble vitamins, and lipoproteins.
What are some GI symptoms of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
Diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and steatorrhea.
What is the mainstay of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, administered with meals and snacks.
What does pancreatin contain?
Amylases, lipases and proteases to assist the digestion of starch, fats and protein.
How should pancreatin be handled and why?
Pancreatin should be protected from heat which may denature the proteins contained within.
What is it important to counsel patient when they are on higher strength pancreatin preparations?
To maintain adequate hydration at all times.
