The Cephalic Phase of Pancreatic Secretion in Man

Abstract

Five cases with achlorhydria have been investigated by sham-feeding to establish the existence of a cephalic phase of pancreatic secretion in man. The results of the study showed that as far as the individual enzymes were concerned, the most consistent and greatest response to sham-feeding was found in the concentration and output of trypsin and lipase. A rise in chymotrypsin concentration and output was also found but the amylase response was more variable. Basal volume and bicarbonate concentration was maintained. Sham-feeding would appear to produce a highly concentrated pancreatic juice. The mechanism of the cephalic phase of pancreatic secretion is discussed.