Which condition is associated with pancreatic enzyme deficiency?

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system due to the production of thick, sticky mucus. This abnormal mucus can obstruct ducts in the pancreas, leading to pancreatic enzyme deficiency. The pancreas produces enzymes that are crucial for digesting food, particularly fats and proteins. When these enzymes are not adequately secreted into the digestive tract, individuals can experience malabsorption of nutrients, which may lead to various nutritional deficiencies and related health issues.

In contrast, type 1 diabetes primarily affects insulin production due to the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, but it does not inherently involve a deficiency of pancreatic digestive enzymes. Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver and is not directly linked to enzyme production in the pancreas. Gallbladder disease involves issues with gallbladder function and bile secretion but doesn't typically cause pancreatic enzyme deficiencies. Thus, cystic fibrosis stands out as the condition closely associated with a deficiency of pancreatic enzymes.