Predictive value of a low serum trypsinogen

Previous studies, in selected populations, have determined that a low serum trypsinogen can be seen in chronic exocrine pancreatic disorders (CP) and primary diabetes mellitus (DM). In this study, we investigated the predictive value of a low serum trypsinogen. The study population consisted of 488 consecutive emergency room patients admitted to our hospital on whom a serum amylase was drawn by the emergency room staff. Of the sera drawn, 418 were saved and tested for immunoassayable trypsinogen. Ten of 418 (2.4%), had a low level of this marker (less than 10 ng/ml). Of these 10, four had obvious historical or clinical evidence of CP during their initial hospitalization. Six patients, however, had no initial evidence of CP. Follow-up was obtained in three of the six, and all three had evidence of CP despite absence of symptoms. Of the 418 patients, 37 had DM. A low trypsinogen was found in three of these 37, and all three had concomitant CP. We conclude that this new assay has excellent predictive value in diagnosing chronic exocrine pancreatic disorders.