Definition

A blood lipase test measures the level of the lipase enzyme in the bloodstream. Lipase is a digestive enzyme that plays a key role in breaking down fat in the body. The majority of lipase is produced by the pancreas, which is located behind the lower abdomen. Lipase is also secreted by the salivary glands and stomach to aid in digestion.

Under normal circumstances, the lipase levels in the blood are relatively low. However, if the pancreas is damaged, such as in conditions like pancreatitis, the damaged pancreatic cells release increased amounts of lipase into the bloodstream. High levels of lipase can indicate pancreatic issues, including inflammation (pancreatitis) or other pancreatic diseases. The lipase test can help diagnose these conditions and monitor treatment progress.

Indication

The blood lipase test is typically used to:

• Diagnose pancreatic diseases, particularly acute pancreatitis, which is a sudden and severe inflammation of the pancreas.

• Monitor the success of therapy for pancreatic diseases: If you have been diagnosed with acute or chronic pancreatitis, the lipase test can help determine if treatment is working by tracking changes in lipase levels.

• Monitor peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal wall lining).

• Diagnose and monitor chronic conditions that affect the pancreas, such as:

  • Cystic fibrosis: An inherited disorder that causes thick mucus to form in organs, damaging them.

  • Crohn’s disease: Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.

  • Celiac disease: An immune reaction to eating gluten, affecting the small intestine.

  • Pancreatic cysts: Fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas.

You may need a blood lipase test if you have symptoms suggesting a pancreatic disorder, such as:

• Upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back

• Nausea and vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal swelling or pain

• Fever

• Rapid heartbeat

• Loss of appetite

Contraindication

Contraindications for blood sampling are typically related to conditions at the site of the blood draw. For example, if there is an infection in the area where the blood will be taken, it can increase the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream, leading to further complications.

Other contraindications include the presence of blood vessel grafts, bruising, and hardening of the arteries.

Preparation Before the Test

Before undergoing a blood lipase test, you will be required to fast for 8-12 hours, meaning you should refrain from eating or drinking anything other than water during this period.

Your doctor may also advise you to stop taking certain medications that could potentially interfere with the test results. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and any supplements.

Test Procedure

The lipase test is conducted via a simple blood draw. A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect the sample. To make the vein more prominent, a band will be applied to your upper arm. Once the needle is in place, a small amount of blood is drawn for testing. After the sample is collected, the band will be removed, and the needle will be taken out. A bandage or plaster will be applied to the injection site.

You may experience some discomfort when the needle is inserted or removed, but the procedure typically lasts less than five minutes. Afterward, it is common to experience some mild pain or bruising at the puncture site, though these symptoms usually resolve quickly.

Normal and Abnormal Values

Lipase levels are commonly measured in units per liter of blood (U/L). The normal range can vary between laboratories, but the following are typical reference values:

• For individuals under 60 years of age: 10-140 U/L

• For individuals over 60 years of age: 24-151 U/L

Results and Recommendations (Follow-up Tests)

If your lipase levels are significantly elevated, where they reach 3-10 times the normal range, it is usually indicative of acute pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

Higher-than-normal lipase levels can also be associated with several other conditions, including:

• Pancreatic diseases, such as pancreatic duct obstruction or pancreatic cancer

• Chronic kidney disease

• Peptic ulcer disease (sores in the duodenum)

• Gallbladder disease

• Digestive tract conditions like intestinal obstruction

• Diabetes

• Salivary gland disorders, such as infection or cancer

• Alcohol abuse

While the lipase test is considered one of the most accurate tests for diagnosing acute pancreatitis, doctors may also order a blood test for amylase, another enzyme that is elevated during pancreatitis. In some cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs may be performed to detect physical abnormalities or swelling in the pancreas.

In contrast, low lipase levels can suggest permanent damage to the pancreatic cells that produce the enzyme, such as in chronic conditions like cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis.

Even if your lipase levels are abnormal, this does not automatically mean that a medical condition requiring treatment is present. Many medications, including codeine, diuretics (drugs to remove excess fluid), certain cholesterol-lowering medications, and birth control pills, can influence your lipase levels.

Consult the Right Doctor

If your lipase levels are elevated, it is important to consult with an internist who can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Based on your condition, your doctor may suggest additional diagnostic tests or refer you to specialists.

Looking for more information about laboratory, radiology, and other examination results? Click here!