Lab marker · Low

Low Fecal elastase-1: what it means

A Fecal elastase-1 result below the normal range is considered low. Here is what a reduced 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

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What a low Fecal elastase-1 can mean

  • Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency — the key abnormal finding; the pancreas is not making enough enzymes.
  • Chronic pancreatitis — a common cause of a low elastase.
  • Cystic fibrosis — often causes very low levels.
  • Pancreatic cancer or after pancreatic surgery.
  • A falsely low value with very watery diarrhoea — dilution can lower the reading.

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

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Mediora.AI is informational - interpretation, not a diagnosis. A single out-of-range value is common and often benign; always discuss decisions with your doctor.