Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

The exocrine pancreas synthesizes and secretes more than ten enzymes and proenzymes. Impairment or loss of pancreatic functions results in either partial or complete loss of compensation for most nutrients, although a healthy gland secretes ten times the necessary amount of enzymes. Thus, as a rule, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency manifests itself at a late stage; nevertheless, it can develop into a clinically significant problem, but one which is difficult to diagnose and treat. This compendium presents a summary of the latest, state-of-the-art knowledge available concerning the diagnosis and therapy of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency competently and with a view to practical applications. The result is a well-balanced and practice-oriented reference book which reflects the current state of knowledge on this subject.