Efficacy of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy on exocrine pancreatic insufficiency: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Xiuming Yang, Lina Yang, Weiwei Zhang et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) in improving nutrient absorption in patients with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Analyzing 14 randomized controlled trials with 684 patients, the study found that PERT significantly enhanced fat absorption (CFA: SMD = 1.57) and protein absorption (CNA: SMD = 1.52) compared to placebo, with notable improvements across various EPI etiologies.
Key findings
- PERT significantly improved fat absorption (CFA: SMD = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.20-1.94) compared to placebo.
- Protein absorption also increased with PERT (CNA: SMD = 1.52, 95% CI: 0.97-2.06).
- CFA improvement was significant in cystic fibrosis-related EPI (SMD = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.48-2.25).
- CNA increased in CF-associated EPI (SMD = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.30-2.50).
Why it matters
The findings underscore the importance of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy in managing exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, as it significantly enhances nutrient absorption, which is crucial for patient health and nutritional status.