Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is an underrecognized but clinically significant condition that can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and long-term complications if left undiagnosed. Fortunately, there's a noninvasive and highly specific test that can help clinicians take the guesswork out of diagnosis.

In this episode of The Results Are In, host Jen Jenkins speaks with Dr Elif Nahas, Associate Director of Pathology and Chair of the Gastrointestinal and Liver Resource Committee at Quest Diagnostics. Dr Nahas explains what EPI is, the most common symptoms, and which patients are at highest risk. She also outlines how pancreatic elastase testing works, why it’s reliable even for patients already on pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, and how to interpret test results accurately.

Whether you're a primary care provider or a GI specialist, this episode offers clear insights into why EPI should be on your diagnostic radar and how early identification and treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes.

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Abbreviations used in episode:

EPI: Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

AGA: American Gastroenterological Association

References mentioned in episode:

1. Quest Diagnostics Test Directory – Pancreatic Elastase-1, Fecal:
   https://testdirectory.questdiagnostics.com/test/test-detail/14693/pancreatic-elastase-1?cc=MASTER
2. American Gastroenterological Association (AGA):
   https://gastro.org

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The evolution of prenatal genetics is transforming care by supporting clarity, confidence, and a patient-centric approach.

In this episode of The Results Are In by Quest Diagnostics, host Lisa Demers is joined by Paul Kezmarsky, Director of Strategy & Solutions in Genetics at Quest. A board-certified genetic counselor, Paul brings over a decade of experience across both clinical and laboratory settings, with a focus on expanding access to care.

They explore how prenatal genetic screening has evolved from the days of limited biochemical tests to today’s broader, pan-ethnic screening approaches. They break down how these tests work, what makes them clinically useful, and why clear results supported by expert guidance are essential for providers and their patients.

This episode offers a straightforward look at how prenatal genetics is reshaping pregnancy care, making it more proactive, inclusive, and actionable for providers everywhere.

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Presented by Quest Diagnostics
www.questdiagnostics.com

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Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often called “forever chemicals,” have made their way into drinking water, consumer products, and even our bodies. With potential health risks tied to exposure, PFAS have become one of the most pressing public health challenges today.

In this episode of The Results Are In from Quest Diagnostics, host Dr Jack Kain speaks with Dr. Sarah Bartock, National Science Director of Drug Monitoring & Toxicology at Quest. Together, they break down what PFAS are, how people are exposed, and the health conditions that have been linked to these chemicals. They also discuss how blood testing—including Quest’s PFAS 9 Panel—can help patients and providers better understand risk and make informed decisions about exposure reduction and health monitoring.

Listeners will also hear about emerging research into possible interventions, the limitations of current testing, and the broader challenges of addressing PFAS in the environment.

Don’t miss this important conversation that connects environmental science, preventive care, and clinical practice.

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Abbreviations used in episode:

NHANES: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

NASEM: National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine

References mentioned in episode:

1. Møller JJ, Lyngberg AC, Hammer PEC, et al.. Substantial decrease of PFAS with anion exchange resin treatment - A clinical cross-over trial. Environ Int. 2024;185:108497. doi:10.1016/j.envint.2024.108497
2. Ducatman A, Luster M, Fletcher T. Perfluoroalkyl substance excretion: Effects of organic anion-inhibiting and resin-binding drugs in a community setting. Environ Toxicol Pharmacol. 2021;85:103650. doi:10.1016/j.etap.2021.103650
3. Lindell AE, Grießhammer A, Michaelis L, et al. Human gut bacteria bioaccumulate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Nat Microbiol. 2025;10(7):1630-1647.
4. Dzierlenga MW, Keast DR, Longnecker MP. The concentration of several perfluoroalkyl acids in serum appears to be reduced by dietary fiber. Environ Int. 2021;146:106292. doi:10.1016/j.envint.2020.106292
5. Schlezinger JJ, Biswas K, Garcia A, Heiger-Bernays WJ, Bello D. An oat fiber intervention for reducing PFAS body burden: A pilot study in male C57Bl/6 J mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2025;495:117188. doi:10.1016/j.taap.2024.117188
6. Tian Y, Luan M, Zhang J, Yang H, Wang Y, Chen H. Associations of single and multiple perfluoroalkyl substances exposure with folate among adolescents in NHANES 2007-2010. Chemosphere. 2022;307(Pt 3):135995. doi:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135995
7. Zhang Y, Mustieles V, Wang YX, Sun Y, Agudelo J, et al.. Folate concentrations and serum perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance concentrations in adolescents and adults in the USA (National Health and Nutrition Examination Study 2003-16): an observational study. Lancet Planet Health. 2023;7(6):e449-e458. doi:10.1016/S2542-5196(23)00088-8

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