Which of the following is a symptom of pancreas failure?

• A. Weight loss, inability to digest food, ravenous appetite with large weight loss
• B. Weight gain
• C. Shortness of breath
• D. Headache

Answer: (A)

Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency reduces the secretion of digestive enzymes needed to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Without these enzymes, digestion and nutrient absorption fall short, especially for fats, leading to malabsorption and weight loss even when food intake is high. The body may respond with increased hunger as it tries to compensate for poor nutrient uptake, but the weight continues to drop because the nutrients aren’t being absorbed. This combination—weight loss with an inability to digest food and a ravenous appetite—best fits pancreas failure. Weight gain isn’t typical, and shortness of breath or headaches aren’t characteristic signs of pancreatic enzyme deficiency.