Lipase Test
Lipase Test
Lipase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas to help the body absorb fats. Normal levels of lipase are necessary for proper digestion. However, unusually high blood lipase levels indicate pancreatic problems, especially pancreatitis. Other health conditions where lipase levels may elevate include inflammatory bowel disease, kidney disease, and peptic ulcers.
A lipase test is a biochemistry test that measures the amount of this enzyme in a patient's blood sample to determine the underlying problems with their pancreas. The test may also be ordered if your doctor wants to monitor the progression of other health conditions, such as gallstones, blockage of the pancreatic duct, or the development of a pseudocyst.
What is Lipase Test Used For? A lipase test is used:
A lipase test is used
To identify acute pancreatitis in people having suspected symptoms
To evaluate how well the pancreatitis treatment is working
To diagnose and monitor chronic diseases that affect pancreas (e.g celiac disease)
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
The symptoms of pancreatitis can vary depending on how long they appear. Some general symptoms that may indicate acute or chronic pancreatitis include
Continuous pain in the upper belly
Nausea with vomiting
Rapid pulse
Fever
Episodes of pain in the belly that spreads into the back
Unexpected weight loss
Greasy, foul-smelling stool
Preparation for Test
Avoid consuming anything except water for 8 to 12 hours before having the lipase test. You may also need to stop certain medications like birth control pills, thiazide diuretics, cholesterol pills, and codeine cough syrup, as they can affect the test results.
Interpretation of Test Results
The measurement of lipase blood test is reported in units per liter (U/L), with the reference range provided in the table below. However, these values may vary among different labs.
|
Blood Lipase levels (U/L) |
Interpretation |
|
Less than 10 |
Sign of pancreatic cell damage, maybe due to chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis |
|
10-140 (For adults ≤ 60 years) |
Normal |
|
24 to 151 (≥ 60 years) |
Normal |
|
Higher than 160 |
Acute pancreatitis |
FAQs
Why do I need a lipase test?
You may need a lipase test if you have symptoms of sudden pancreatic inflammation from a disease or alcohol misuse.
How is the lipase test done?
During the lipase test, the doctor will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle and send it to the lab for further analysis.
What does a high level of lipase indicate?
If your report suggests you have higher than normal levels of serum lipase, it is a sign of acute pancreatitis, which can occur due to:
- Pancreatic cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Chronic Kidney diseases
- Gall bladder disorders
- Infection, inflammation or cancer of salivary glands
- Obesity and diabetes
- Drinking too much alcohol
Family history of pancreatitis
Can drinking alcohol cause an increase in lipase in the blood?
Yes, consuming alcohol can elevate blood lipase levels, especially with daily intake. Alcohol, when metabolized, produces substances that are harmful to the pancreas, causing pancreatitis and, therefore, increasing lipase levels.
What is the treatment for high lipase?
Taking prescribed medications and avoiding alcohol is the primary treatment for high blood lipase. But your treatment plan may also include receiving intravenous fluids (IV) to manage your symptoms. Eating a diet rich in fiber and low in fat is additionally recommended.
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