Objective: The objective of the investigation is to assess the applicability of elastase assessment in faeces in different grades of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and other gastrointestinal (GI) affections. Material and methods: Elastase was examined in 139 patients who were divided into groups. 66 patients suffered , based on ERCP examination, from CP. These were further divided by the grade of CP according to Cambridge criteria: 23 patients CP grade I, 12 patients CP grade II, 31 patients CP grade III. 42 patients suffered from GI affections. From the latter 7 with malignant disease and stenosis of the biliary pathways and pancreas were eliminated. As controls served 24 patients with non-gastrointestinal diseases. Results: The elastase values in different groups were as follows: CP grade I 409.2 ± 137.4, CP grade II 183.1 ± 140.0, CP grade III 75.0 ± 108.9, GI affections 364.2 ± 182.4, stenoses of the biliary pathways 64.8 ± 74.1, controls 397.9 ± 133.0. A statistically significant difference was found between the control group and the group of patients with CP II, CPIII and stenosis of the efferent biliary pathways and pancreas. The sensitivity for CP grade II 75 %, CP grade III 94 % , specificity 86 %. Conclusion: Assessment of elastase in faeces is useful in the diagnosis of CP grade II and III. It reveals the actual passage of digestive enzymes in subhepatic obstructive processes. The level is not affected by other GI affections.

        Key words: elastase in faeces – chronic pancreatitis – gastrointestinal affection