Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
Very watery stool can falsely lower the result.
Why it's done
- Greasy, floating, foul-smelling stools
- Weight loss with diarrhea
- Chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis
Getting ready and what happens
- You can stay on enzyme supplements; they don't affect the test.
How the test is done
- You collect a formed stool sample.
What the results mean
| Result | Typical range for adults |
|---|---|
| Normal | Above 200 mcg/g |
| Severe insufficiency | Below 100 mcg/g |
Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.
Low
Suggests exocrine pancreatic insufficiency; enzyme capsules with meals help.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Related conditions
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.