Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) is a common yet frequently under-recognised cause of maldigestion, malabsorption, and malnutrition. Although traditionally associated with primary pancreatic disorders such as chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, or pancreatic surgery, it is now evident that PEI also occurs in a wide range of extra-pancreatic conditions and clinical settings. Advances in diagnostic testing and expanding clinical awareness have improved detection; however, significant misconceptions persist regarding when to suspect PEI; how to interpret diagnostic tests; and how to initiate, optimise, and monitor pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT). In everyday practice, these errors may lead to delayed diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, persistent symptoms, and preventable nutritional deficiencies. This “Mistakes in…” article highlights common pitfalls in the diagnosis and management of PEI, focusing on inappropriate reliance on faecal elastase testing, failure to recognise secondary causes, undertreatment with PERT, and inadequate nutritional assessment. By addressing these frequent mistakes, we aim to promote a more structured, patient-centred, and evidence-informed approach to PEI that improves clinical outcomes and quality of life.

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is the intravenous delivery of nutrients, commonly used to treat intestinal failure (IF). IF occurs when gut function is insufficient to absorb macronutrients, water, or electrolytes, requiring IV supplementation to maintain health. The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) classifies IF into acute (type 1) and chronic (types 2 and 3), with chronic cases often needing long-term home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Although IF is rare, its prevalence in Europe is rising. PN formulations are complex, requiring skilled management by a specialized multi-disciplinary team to avoid complications.

Ostomy management refers to the care and maintenance of an ostomy and involves various aspects to ensure the individual’s health, comfort, and quality of life. This should involve the patient, a close support system (family and/or friends), and a healthcare team, including ostomy nurses and healthcare professionals specialising in ostomy care.

The complexity of managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) stems from the heterogeneity of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. This leads to differences in disease course, complications, and treatment responses among patients. Current treatment strategies rely on a trial-and-error approach, but there's a need for personalized therapy. Efforts have been made to develop reliable prognostic and predictive biomarkers to overcome disease heterogeneity. This article discusses common mistakes in biomarker development, interpretation, and application in IBD, emphasizing evidence-based insights and lessons learned from other fields.

The coordination of smooth muscle and nerve function in the gastrointestinal tract is crucial for digestion and waste disposal. Disorders in this process can lead to chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO), a severe condition where the intestines fail to propel contents. Managing CIPO involves improving intestinal motility, maintaining nutrition, treating complications, managing exacerbations, and carefully considering invasive procedures. This article focuses on common mistakes in CIPO diagnosis and management, offering evidence-based insights and clinical experience.