High Fecal elastase-1: what it means
A Fecal elastase-1 result above the normal range is considered high. Here is what a raised Fecal elastase-1 can point to, and when it is worth discussing with a doctor.
Reference range: measured in a stool sample; >200 µg/g normal, 100–200 moderate and <100 severe pancreatic insufficiency — a LOW value is the abnormal one
Understand your full resultWhat a high Fecal elastase-1 can mean
- A normal or high elastase is reassuring — it makes significant pancreatic enzyme insufficiency unlikely.
- High values are not a concern — for this test it is the low result that signals disease.
When to discuss with a doctor
Fecal elastase is used when malabsorption from the pancreas is suspected — for example greasy, pale, foul-smelling stools, unexplained weight loss, bloating, or low fat-soluble vitamins — and its distinctive feature is that the LOW result is the abnormal one. A clearly low level supports exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and usually leads to enzyme replacement treatment and a search for the underlying cause (such as chronic pancreatitis), guided by a doctor. A normal level makes a pancreatic cause of the symptoms unlikely and shifts attention elsewhere, such as coeliac disease. A very watery sample can lower the value falsely, so the result is read with the clinical picture. Mediora.AI shows fecal elastase alongside markers of malabsorption (fat-soluble vitamins, B12) so the pancreatic pattern is visible; the interpretation and any treatment belong with your doctor.
Conditions this can relate to
Keep reading
One value is a snapshot. Upload the full test to see every marker explained together.
Upload your test - freeMediora.AI is informational - interpretation, not a diagnosis. A single out-of-range value is common and often benign; always discuss decisions with your doctor.