[Faecal enzyme diagnostic (author's transl)].

The hitherto existing results of determinations of enzymatic activities in stool are presented in this review. The chymotrypsin activity is diminished in advanced exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. The faecal alpha-amylase activity has up to now no significance in the diagnosis of pancreatic diseases. Up to five amylolytic enzyme activities are detectable. The alkaline phosphatase is mostly of intestinal origin. Up to 4 enzyme bands can be exhibited with the disc electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel. Lysozyme and N-Acetyl-beta-D-glycosaminidase can also be detected in stool.