Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency: The Basics
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes, which are crucial for the absorption of nutrients. This disrupts normal digestion, leading to symptoms like gas, bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss. EPI can be caused by chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, and pancreatic cancer, among others.