EPI but no known cause

[Richietosh]

Hello;

Bit of a weird one. I was diagnosed with EPI last year. Pancreas wasn’t producing the enzymes although I was found to not be diabetic so it still half works.

After a CT with contrast and an MRCP scan they found absolutely nothing.

Pancreas is normal size and shape, no sign of scarring, No masses, no sign of duct obstruction or dilation, liver and gallbladder looked ok also.

So I’m really confused, how can that be? Obvious I’m very relived that the 2 scans didn’t so anything sinister. Does it make me more likely to develop a cancer of the pancreas?

Thank you

[PCUK Nurse Rachel R]

Hi Richietosh,

It's Rachel here, one of the nurses. That is great news that your investigations have not shown any cause for concern. I'm sure this came as a massive relief to you.

PEI, or pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (or EPI!) can be associated with other conditions too, less common ones are coeliac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease.

I appreciate you might be under follow-up too perhaps with a Gastroenterology team?

If you did wish to have a more private chat with one of us nurses then do please get in touch by calling our support line or sending us an email - the contact details are below.

Best wishes,

Rachel

Rachel Richardson

Pancreatic Cancer Specialist Nurse

Support Team

Pancreatic Cancer UK

email: nurse@pancreaticcancer.org.uk

support line: 0808 801 0707