What is an exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is a metabolic disorder where the pancreas do not create the right enzymes and people have problems with food digestion. This condition can be observed in cats and dogs for pets, as well as in humans, and has a number of causes from congenital conditions to acquired health problems. Treatment involves supplementing diet with pancreatic enzymes that help digestion and monitoring levels of vitamins to determine whether vitamin supplementation is also necessary. The patient may also develop clear symptoms of malnutrition caused by poor digestion, from diarrhea to rapid weight loss. Common congenital causes include genetic conditions such as Shwachman-Damond syndrome and cystic fibrosis. People with diabetes also sometimes develop this condition and chronic pancreatitis can lead to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
If a physician suspects that the patient has this condition on the basis of history and interview for the patient, blood tests can be asked to collect information. The patient may also be savedn to medical imaging studies to see if the pancreas is abnormal. Risk factors such as having cystic fibrosis can accelerate diagnosis. After diagnostic testing, the physician can check the results, determine the cause, unless it is already obvious and develop a treatment plan.
Treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency usually requires some changes in diet. The patient will be switched to a high -side diet to facilitate food processing. The balance of this diet may vary depending on the patient's needs and usually involves a lot of fiber. Digestive enzymes can be sprinkled into food and pets can be served raw abdominal and experience digestive enzymes directly bridge. If vitamin supplementation is needed, they can be added to the diet as needed.
People with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency will have to be watched for a lifetime in terms of signs of ZMOut in their condition and to check malnutrition and other questions. It is usually recommended to test regular testing together with physical examinations and patients will have to make permanent dietary changes. People who have difficulty holding a diet may encounter a nutritionist or dietitian to discuss ways to satisfy their needs. Nutritional experts and dietologists can offer tips and tricks to prepare food, including recipes, new ways of food combinations, etc. The doctor may have recommendations for a nutritionist who can help the patient create and follow the prescribed food.