PANCREAS LIPASE BLOOD TEST

The test is often ordered as part of the evaluation for pancreatic disorders, particularly acute pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the pancreas, which can lead to the leakage of lipase and other enzymes into the bloodstream.

Elevated levels of lipase in the blood can indicate several conditions, including acute or chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic pseudocyst, pancreatic cancer, gallbladder inflammation, and other disorders affecting the pancreas or bile ducts. However, it is important to note that elevated lipase levels can also be caused by factors unrelated to the pancreas, such as kidney disease, certain medications, and gastrointestinal conditions.

Conversely, low levels of lipase are less common but may be seen in conditions that affect the pancreas, such as chronic pancreatitis or cystic fibrosis.

This test is normally performed together with another pancreas biomarker - the Amylase Blood Test.

1 BIOMARKER