pancreatic insufficiency

Question 1

what is pancreatic insufficiency

Answer 1

reduced secretion of pancreatic enzymes into duodenum

may lead to maldigestion and malnutrition

symptoms present with GI - abdominal pain, diarhoea

can be caused by pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis

Question 2

treatment

Answer 2

pancreatic enzyme replacement - pancreatin

pancreatin contains lipase, protease, amylase breaks down fat, protein, carbs to absorb nutrients
- take with meals/snacks - prevent early breakdown

patients with CF - fibrosing colonopathy at high dose pancreatin
- CF patients should not exceed 10,000 units/kg/day
- watch out for new abdominal symptoms

levels of fat soluble vitamins and micro nutrients need to be monitored - supplement when needed