Prescribing of pancreatic enzyme therapy for malabsorption in unresectable pancreatic cancer: Cross-sectional survey across New Zealand and Australia.

Objective: To investigate the practices of clinicians prescribing pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) for unresectable pancreatic cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia.

Methods: A mixed media advertising campaign was used to recruit appropriate clinicians to complete a questionnaire that collected demographic data, information regarding prescribed medication, and awareness of PERT guidelines.

Results: The study recruited 161 clinicians, with 93 and 68 respondents from Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia respectively. Most respondents from both countries were experienced gastrointestinal surgeons and dietitians. Aotearoa New Zealand clinicians and dietitians used faecal elastase more frequently to diagnose PEI than other groups. Clinicians had a tendency to under-prescribe PERT, and to advise incorrectly on the timing of the medication. The majority of clinicians from Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia were not aware of any best practice clinical guidelines for PERT (70 % and 77 %, respectively).

Conclusion: This study suggests clinicians are over-reliant on faecal elastase to diagnose PEI and are uncertain about the correct dose and timing of PERT for optimal patient benefit in those with unresectable pancreatic cancer. Most clinicians were not aware of best practice guidelines.