Interpretive Handbook
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Test 90158:
Elastase, Pancreatic, Serum
Clinical Information 
Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test
Serum Elastase, also called Pancreatopeptidase, is a protease present in
pancreatic secretion with the unique ability to rapidly hydrolyze elastin.
Elastin is a fibrillar protein found in connective tissue. Elastin forms the
elastic fibers found mostly in lungs and skin. Elastase is able to hydrolyze
denatured hemoglobin, casein, fibrin, albumin and denatured but not
native collagen. Elastase has been implicated in the pathogenesis of
pulmonary emphysema, atherosclerosis and in the vascular injury of
acute pancreatic necrosis. Elastase activity is inhibited by protease
inhibitors including a1-Anti-Trypsin, a1-anti-Chymotrypsin, anti-Thrombin
III, a2-Macroglobulin and b1-anti-Collagenase. Patients with thyroid
dysfunction have decreased Elastase activity. Serum pancreatic levels
quantify EL 1 for the diagnosis or exclusion of an acute pancreatitis or
an inflammatory episode of chronic pancreatitis or gallstone induced
pancreatitis.
Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.
Adult Reference Ranges:
Normal pancreatic exocrine function:
Less than 3.5 ng/mL
No pediatric reference ranges available for this test.
Test Performed by: Interscience Institute
944 West Hyde Park
Inglewood, CA 90302
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