Abstract | BACKGROUND: METHODS: An anonymous survey was distributed to the members of the Dutch Association of Patients with Pancreatic Disorders. The survey focused on enzyme use, steatorrhea-related symptoms, dietary consultation, and food restrictions. Responding patients were included if they had chronic pancreatitis and were treated for exocrine insufficiency with pancreatic enzymes. RESULTS: The survey was returned by 178 members who suffered from chronic pancreatitis, 161 of whom (90%) met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 56 years and 53% were male. The median enzyme intake was 6 capsules per day and 25% of patients took 3 or less capsules. Remarkably, 70% of patients still reported steatorrhea-related symptoms, despite treatment. Only 25% of cases were referred to a dietician and 58% kept a restriction of fat (either instructed by a dietician or self-imposed). CONCLUSION: Many patients with exocrine insufficiency caused by chronic pancreatitis are under-treated in the Netherlands, a country with a well-organized healthcare system. To improve treatment efficacy, patients should be educated in adjusting the enzyme dosage according to steatorrhea-related symptoms and dietary fat intake. Moreover, patients should be referred to a well-trained, specialized dietician.
|
Authors | Edmée C M Sikkens, Djuna L Cahen, Casper van Eijck, Ernst J Kuipers, Marco J Bruno |
Journal | Pancreatology : official journal of the International Association of Pancreatology (IAP) ... [et al.]
(Pancreatology)
2012 Jan-Feb
Vol. 12
Issue 1
Pg. 71-3
ISSN: 1424-3911 [Electronic] Switzerland |
PMID | 22487479
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
|
Copyright | Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. |
Chemical References |
|
Topics |
- Adult
- Aged
- Cross-Sectional Studies
- Dietary Fats
(administration & dosage)
- Enzyme Replacement Therapy
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
(diet therapy, drug therapy, etiology)
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Netherlands
- Pancreas
(enzymology)
- Pancreatitis, Chronic
(complications)
- Prospective Studies
- Steatorrhea
(prevention & control)
|