A tumor in the head of the pancreas can affect the production and secretion of the digestive enzymes. When Exocrine Pancreas Insufficiency occurs, malabsorption of nutrients and vitamins results. The condition is treated with pancreatic enzymes replacement therapy using a pancrealipase such an Rx Creon, Zenpep or others.

Some obvious signs of EPI are foul smelling stool that floats and leaves a greasy sheen on the toilet water surface, can be light tan, light yellow or light orange in color. Oil droplets might be noticed after a meal heavy in dietary fats. Excessive foul smelling gas, cramping and urgency to use the toilet.

Another condition seen in advanced stage cancer patients is cachexia. This is a metabolic issue and more difficult to treat. Replacement enzymes and exercise to maintain muscle tone are recommended. A Registered Dietitian with the credential C.S.O. (Certification Specialist Oncology) is the most knowledgeable team member to address these conditions. They will be found assigned to a GI Oncology Unit and have advanced training working with the needs of GI Cancer patients. A GI specialist can do a diagnostic work-up to rule in/out other GI tract pathologies such as Small Intestine Bacterial Overload (SIBO), Lactose intolerance, Celiac Disease, IBD/IBS, Crohn’s disease and others. The test done to determine if digestive enzymes are causing the issue is the fecal elastase-1 test. This is often done when weight loss is the only symptom.