Trypsin and chymotrypsin in stool

Alternative names:

stool - trypsin and chymotrypsin

How the test is performed:

Adults and children:
There are many ways to collect the samples. You can catch the stool on plastic wrap that is loosely placed over the toilet bowl and held in place by the toilet seat. Then put the sample in a clean container. One test kit supplies a special toilet tissue that you use to collect the sample, then put the sample in a clean container.

Infants and young children:
For children wearing diapers, you can line the diaper with plastic wrap. If the plastic wrap is positioned properly, isolating the stool from any urine output, mixing of urine and stool can be prevented for a better sample.

A drop of emulsified stool is placed on a thin layer of gelatin. If trypsin or chymotrypsin are present, the gelatin will be digested, which will produce a clearing of the gelatin.

How to prepare for the test:

Your health care provider will provide you with the necessary supplies to collect the stool.

Why the test is performed:

This test is a simple screening test sometimes used to test young children suspected of having cystic fibrosis.

Trypsin and chymotrypsin are proteolytic enzymes released from the pancreas during normal digestion. People with cystic fibrosis form mucous plugs that can obstruct the pancreatic ducts that empty into the small intestines.