Each report features easy to read graphs along with detailed commentary for each section such as the following example. Total fecal fats, cholesterol and long chain fatty acids are elevated, while total short chain fatty acids are depressed. Elevated levels of the first three suggest fat malabsorption. The total fecal fats are calculated as the sum of fecal triglycerides, cholesterol and long chain fatty acids.
Fecal cholesterol derives from both dietary sources and epithelial cell breakdown.
Elevated fecal cholesterol may thus reflect mucosal malabsorption or increased mucosal cell turnover. Long chain fatty acids are normally readily absorbed by the healthy intestine. Elevated levels suggest fat malabsorption. Total short chain fatty acids are the end products of microbial fermentation of undigested carbohydrates and fiber. Decreased levels may reflect insufficient normal colonic flora, a diet low in fiber or prolonged transit time.