Exocrine pancreatic function in the elderly

Gerontology. 1983;29(6):407-11. doi: 10.1159/000213152.

Abstract

We studied pancreatic bicarbonate and enzyme output in response to a continuous intravenous infusion of secretin, 1 CU/kg X h, and cerulein, 100 ng/kg X h, in 25 elderly subjects and in 30 young controls. Almost all elderly persons had pancreatic outputs within the range of controls. Only 3 aged individuals showed diminished enzyme output, but the reduction was very slight. We conclude that exocrine pancreatic function is not significantly influenced by aging.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aging*
  • Bicarbonates / metabolism
  • Chymotrypsin / metabolism
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lipase / metabolism
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pancreas / enzymology
  • Pancreas / physiology*
  • Secretory Rate
  • Trypsin / metabolism

Substances

  • Bicarbonates
  • Lipase
  • Chymotrypsin
  • Trypsin