Patients with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency are often asymptomatic, and clinically relevant maldigestion may occur earlier than noticeable symptoms. Lipid-soluble vitamins are lost along with fecal fat, so they are especially affected.
Vitamin K malabsorption and subsequent hypoprothrombinemia can result in bleeding disorders. Ecchymosis usually is the manifesting symptom; less frequently, melena and hematuria may occur.
Visual impairment, particularly in the dark, can result from a vitamin A deficiency.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is strongly associated with muscle wasting, a consequence of the malnutrition associated with the disorder.
Learn more about exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
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Cite this: B.S. Anand. Fast Five Quiz: Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Presentation and Diagnosis - Medscape - May 04, 2020.
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