CPT® Code 84485

Trypsin is a digestive enzyme classified as a serine protease, which is produced by the pancreas in an inactive form known as trypsinogen. This inactive precursor is secreted into the duodenum through the pancreatic duct, where it is activated into trypsin by the enzyme enteropeptidase. The primary function of trypsin is to hydrolyze ingested proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids, facilitating their absorption and digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. The measurement of trypsin levels in duodenal fluid serves as an important diagnostic tool for assessing pancreatic function. Abnormal levels of trypsin can indicate various pancreatic disorders. For instance, severely reduced levels of trypsin in duodenal fluid are often associated with chronic pancreatitis and carcinoma of the head of the pancreas. In contrast, less severely reduced levels may be observed in conditions such as diabetic glucose intolerance and obstruction of the common bile duct. This test is crucial for clinicians to evaluate pancreatic health and diagnose potential pathologies related to pancreatic enzyme production.