Alpha Defensins 1, 2, and 3, Stool — Qualitative Immunoassay
A stool test that detects alpha-defensins 1, 2, and 3. It may help evaluate pancreatic exocrine function when pancreatic insufficiency is suspected.
["This test can help identify reduced pancreatic digestive function, but results should be interpreted with symptoms and other pancreatic tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94718-4
- Short code
- Alpha defensins 1+2+3 Snv Ql IA
- Synonyms
- Alpha defensins 1+2+3 Snv Ql IA
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This laboratory test looks for alpha-defensins 1, 2, and 3 in stool using an immunoassay. These proteins are produced by the pancreas, and the test is used mainly to help evaluate whether the pancreas is releasing enough digestive enzymes.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered if you have symptoms of pancreatic insufficiency, such as weight loss, diarrhea, oily or foul-smelling stools, abdominal discomfort, or poor nutrient absorption. It is also sometimes used in the evaluation of chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, or reduced pancreatic function after pancreatic surgery.
How is the test performed?
A stool sample is collected and sent to a laboratory, where an immunoassay is used to determine whether alpha-defensins 1, 2, and 3 are present. This is a qualitative test, so the report generally provides a positive or negative result rather than a specific concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the laboratory's stool-collection instructions, including the container and amount required. Keep urine, toilet water, and cleaning products from contaminating the sample, and tell the laboratory if you recently took antibiotics or other medicines that could affect the result.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result may indicate reduced pancreatic exocrine function, which can occur with chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic duct obstruction, or loss of pancreatic tissue. A negative result makes significant pancreatic insufficiency less likely but does not completely exclude it. The result should be interpreted together with symptoms, medical history, and other tests such as fecal elastase.
Short name
Stool alpha-defensins
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive alpha-defensins stool test mean?
Does a negative result rule out pancreatic insufficiency?
Is this the same as a fecal elastase test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy