Serum Lipase

Specimen Required

3-5cc Clotted Blood or Serum

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

To diagnose and monitor pancreatitis or other pancreatic disease

When this test is required

A lipase test may be used if you show symptoms of a pancreatic disorder, such as severe abdominal pain, fever, loss of appetite, or nausea and to monitor the effect of treatment.

What the Test Detects

Lipase is an enzyme manufactured primarily by the pancreas. It is released into the duodenum to help digest fatty foods. Small amounts are present in blood. When pancreatic cells are inflamed as in pancreatitis or when its path into the duodenum is blocked by a gallstone or, rarely, a pancreatic tumour, increased amounts of lipase pass into the blood.See MoreSee Less

Preparation for the Test

None

Sample Requirements

A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm

Additional Notes

In acute pancreatitis, the changes seen in lipase concentrations are usually similar to those of another pancreatic enzyme called amylase, but remains elevated longer (for 5 to 7 days).Lipase and amylase are sometimes used together to diagnose acute pancreatitis. Either lipase or amylase may be requested to help diagnose acute pancreatitis. Either test may also be used to monitor chronic pancreatitis. They may be moderately elevated in chronic pancreatic disease but levels can fall if the cells that produce amylase and lipase in the pancreas become damaged or destroyed. Drugs that may interfere with maintaining proper lipase levels include codeine, indomethacin and morphine.

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